The law protects the relationship between a client and a marriage and family therapist intern and information cannot be disclosed without written permission. One of the exceptions is that as an intern, I work under a supervisor with whom cases are discussed. Confidentiality laws extend to the supervisor as well as myself. See below for other exceptions.
Exceptions include:
- Suspected child abuse or dependant adult or elder abuse, for which I am required by law to report this to the appropriate authorities immediately.
- If a client is threatening serious bodily harm to another person/s, I must notify the police and inform the intended victim.
- If a client intends to harm himself or herself, I will make every effort to enlist their cooperation in ensuring their safety. If they do not cooperate, I will take further measures without their permission that are provided to me by law in order to ensure their safety.
