The therapeutic relationship is unique in that it is highly personal and at the same time, a contractual agreement. Given this, it is important to reach a clear understanding of how the relationship will work, and what can be expected. This consent will provide a clear framework for working together.
The outcome of your treatment depends largely on your willingness to engage in the process, which may, at times, result in considerable discomfort. Remembering unpleasant events and becoming aware of feelings attached to those events can bring on strong feelings of anger, depression, anxiety, etc. There are no miracle cures. A therapist cannot promise that your behaviour or circumstance will change. We can promise to support you and do our very best to understand you and repeating patterns, as well as to help you clarify what it is that you want for yourself.
The session content and all relevant materials to the client’s treatment will be held confidential unless the client requests in writing to have all or portions of such content released to a specifically named person/persons. Limitations of such client held privilege of confidentiality exist and are itemized below.
If a client threatens or attempts to commit suicide or otherwise conducts him/her self in a manner in which there is a substantial risk of incurring serious bodily harm.
If a client threatens grave bodily harm or death to another person.\
If the therapist has a reasonable suspicion that a client or other named victim is the perpetrator, observer of, or actual victim of physical, emotional or sexual abuse of children under the age of 18 years.
Suspicions as stated above in the case of an elderly person who may be subjected to these abuses.
Suspected neglect of the parties named in items #3 and # 4.
If a court of law issues a legitimate subpoena for information stated on the subpoena.
If a client is in therapy or being treated by order of a court of law, or if the information is obtained for the purpose of rendering an expert’s report to an attorney.
Occasionally the therapist may need to consult with other professionals in their areas of expertise in order to provide the best treatment. Information about you may be shared in this context without using your name.
If we see each other accidentally outside of the therapy office, the therapist will not acknowledge you first. Your right to privacy and confidentiality is of the utmost importance, and will not be jeopardized. However, if you acknowledge the therapist first, he/she will be more than happy to speak briefly with you, but will not engage in any lengthy discussions in public or outside of the therapy office.
Jeanne Prinzivalli, M.A., LMFT
Psychoterapy for Adult Individuals
License: LMFT #52833
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