Policy on Confidentiality

Your records and attendance at Counseling Services are confidential and not part of other records at the university.  The staff may consult with each other to provide you the best possible service, but everyone here is legally bound to keep the information confidential.  In general, information is released to others only with your written permission.  However, there are some relatively rare exceptions: 1.) When abuse of a child, elderly or disabled person is suspected, a report to the appropriate state agency must be made; 2.) If you are a danger to yourself, as evidenced by your intent to seriously harm yourself or having recently harmed yourself, then hospitalization may be sought, or family members or others who can help provide protection may be contacted; 3.) If you intend serious bodily harm to someone else, protective actions may be taken, including notifying the potential victim, contacting the police, or seeking hospitalization; 4.) A judicial authority may order disclosure in some legal proceedings; and 5.) A parent or legal guardian may have the right to access records of students younger than 18.

Professional and legal standards require records to be kept of services provided.  These records are written by and for mental health professionals.  Therefore, it is our policy that a counselor personally responds to concerns or questions about treatment records.  Records, or a summary, can be provided to another mental health professional should you seek treatment elsewhere. You may, of course, talk to anyone you want about your treatment.  Students participating in group counseling are bound to protect the confidentiality of other group members.  Students who are employed by Counseling Services may see you in the office and are also bound by confidentiality.  Student employees do not have access to clinical records.

Questions regarding this policy can be directed to the counselor to which you are assigned or Jennie Cassidy, Director of Counseling Services at (843) 349-2305.