The policy of my practice is as follows.Subject to certain specific exceptions discussed below, all information that you may share with me is confidential, and no information will be released to any third party without your explicit written consent. However, there are specific and limited exceptions to this confidentiality, most notably: When there is a clear risk of substantial harm to yourself, me, or any other person, in which case I am ethically bound to take necessary steps to prevent the harm, including disclosing confidential information to the appropriate authorities. When there is reason to believe that a child needs protection, such as where a child has been or is likely to be physically, sexually or emotionally harmed, abused, or exploited, in which case I am legally bound to report the matter to appropriate authorities. When an insurance company is involved, they may require that I complete a report. I will review and discuss it with you before submission. When the law requires the release of confidential information by me. For example, the Courts subpoena your file, or I am asked to testify in court. I will ask you to sign a waiver from all responsibilities for such releases. If there are any issues regarding confidentiality (e.g., if the services are to be part of a group or joint session, or the services are being paid for by a third party), I will clarify them before providing services. As concerns Couples and Family Therapy, your right to confidentially is partially waived. This is because from a therapeutic point of view, it is not advisable for me and one partner or family member to withhold confidential information from the other partner or family members involved. This does not mean that all information will be automatically shared. Yet, it is important to note: A culture of secrecy disrupts the effectiveness of the Family or Couples therapy Therapy is most effective when group members (couples or family members) communicate openly with one another in order to process and resolve personal and interpersonal issues. So, you will be voluntarily waiving your right to confidentiality with other family members participating in the counselling sessions.