Welcome! We would like to introduce you to some of our important policies and procedures. Please take a few minutes to read this information and feel free to ask any questions.

STATEMENT OF CONFIDENTIALITY

Professional ethics and California State Law specify that communications to therapists (Psychologists, Marriage, Family, Child Counselors, Social Workers, Psychiatrists, etc.) are privileged and confidential, and cannot be released or shared without the written permission of the patient.

There are, however, a few situations wherein the law requires that therapists report certain information. Notably, in situations where abuse of a minor child or an elderly person is suspected or may be occurring, the therapist is required to notify the local law enforcement agency and county protective agency. Therapists are also required by law to warn an individual and the police, of seriously threatened harm to that individual that is disclosed during the course of therapy. In addition, confidentiality may be broken if information is revealed that indicates that a client may cause harm to him/herself.

PROCEDURE FOR EMERGENCIES

It is important to understand that we are not an emergency or crisis clinic, and there may be a time when no therapist is readily available. If this happens, and you are in need of immediate support, you are urged to call 911 or proceed directly to your local hospital emergency room.