Confidentiality

The keystone of psychology and many of the other helping professions is confidentiality. It is never easy sharing personal and sometimes painful aspects of ones life with a stranger and it requires a considerable amount of trust. It is very important for the client to be aware of his/ her rights so that they can be monitored and protected. The essence of confidentiality is that the therapist will keep all aspects of the therapy process a secret. Each health care practitioner has taken an oath to protect their client’s confidentiality by assuming the ethics of their chosen profession. The conduct of each therapist is also monitored by a professional board and the Health Professions Council of South Africa.

There are a few exceptions to confidentiality that are sanctioned by law. It is useful to make them overt from the beginning of therapy.

1. Emergency situations- This would be defined as a situation where the therapist is concerned that the client poses a serious danger to him/ her self or others.
2. Statutory Duty- Refers to times where the therapist has sound reason to believe that a person is being subjected to sexual or physical abuse.
3. Court Orders- The therapist may be obligated to disclose personal information if summoned to appear as a witness in court. .
4. In order to consult with other professionals- At some times during the treatment process it becomes necessary to consult with other professionals involved in a clients life. Such as teacher, doctors and other health care professionals. This will only be done with the written consent of the client or the client’s parent or guardian.

Rest assured that should any of the above eventualities occur. I will make every effort to discuss my concerns and proposed actions with the client before moving forward.