Confidentiality Policy

Confidentiality & Privacy Policy

Your privacy is our top priority. Virginia law protects the relationship between a client and a psychotherapist, and information cannot be disclosed without written permission.

Exceptions include:

  • Suspected abuse or neglect of any children under 18, disabled adults, or elderly adults must be reported to the Department of Social Services. These reports are mandated by Virginia law.
  • If a client is threatening serious bodily harm to another person, we must notify the police and inform the intended victim.
  • If a client intends to harm himself or herself, we will make every effort to enlist their cooperation in ensuring their safety. If they do not cooperate, we are required to take further measures without their permission that are provided to us by law in order to ensure their safety.
  • Reports of unprofessional or unethical conduct by another mental health professional must be reported to that professional's licensure board.
  • If a client has court involvement, it is possible that the therapist or her records could be required (by subpoena) to appear in court. We will take every measure to protect our client's privacy, but there are situations in which we may have to comply with such a court order.