We use psychological assessment to assist the student and us in understanding how their interpersonal style and ways of viewing their world shape their behavior. At times, students may feel they are in a crisis situation and require evaluation for medication, or in extreme emergencies, hospitalization. We are fortunate to have the services of our consultant psychiatrist at these times, and that we have excellent community resources to deal with these crises. Confidentiality Any and all information that students share with us remains confidential with very few exceptions, e.g. when they represent a clear and present danger to themselves or others. Confidentiality is the cornerstone of counseling process, and is a necessary ingredient for the development of trust in counseling.
Confidentiality is also necessary to facilitate the success of counseling.
The Center maintains files that are separate from other University files, and are not shared with any other office or personnel within the University. This confidentiality is safeguarded by our professional codes of conduct and by law. University officials are both cognizant of this requirement and are strict regarding our compliance with it. At times, this may pose problems when parents inquire about their son or daughter out of concern for their well-being. As professionals, we are not at liberty to disclose any information about the client or their treatment if they are 18 years old or older, even the very fact that they may be in treatment, without the client's written permission.