The law protects the confidential nature of the relationship between a client and a psychiatrist. All information shared during an evaluation and/or subsequent treatment sessions is strictly confidential. Information cannot be disclosed to any party without written permission and a signed release of information.
Exceptions include:
*Suspected child abuse and dependent adult or elder abuse, for which I am required by law to report to the appropriate authorities.
*If a patient is threatening serious bodily harm to another person, a psychaitrist is required to notify the police and inform the intended victim.
*If a patient intends to harm himself or herself, a psychiatrist first makes every effort to enlist the patient's cooperation to ensure their safety. If a client is unwilling or unable to ensure his/her safety, and the psychiatrist believes he or she is an imminent danger to themselves, I will take further measures without their permission, provided to me by law, in order to ensure their safety.