Trust can be a major concern when it comes to seeking counseling. Unfortunately there can be a stigma surrounding psychological or emotional problems which may keep individuals from seeking the treatment they deserve. There can be even more fear surrounding confidentiality and who will have access to client records.

It’s important to know that counseling involves exploring core issues and getting a better perspective about the problems and difficulties a client may be facing. Sensitive and personal information may be addressed, possibly creating difficultly in disclosing and discussing matters considered confidential. As such, counseling is about establishing rapport and trust between a therapist and client to create a comfortable environment for open discussion. Therefore, it is the responsibility of the counselor to build a relationship grounded on trust and confidentiality.

Counseling Catered to All

Everyone is unique and in turn will have unique experiences with counseling. You may feel ready to be open and forthcoming from your first session, or perhaps you may feel you need some time to feel comfortable sharing fully. There is no right or wrong way to approach counseling. Your counselor will provide reassurance and empathy, meeting you where you are at, finding the best treatment approach to meet your own unique needs.

Protection from Law

All information you share with your therapist is protected by state law as well as professional ethical standards. The primary governing regulation comes from the state where you reside. Apart from that, other professional guidelines are issued by the American Psychological Association Ethical Principles of Psychologists and Code of Ethics, the American Psychiatric Association Principles of Medical Ethics, and the National Association of Social Workers Code of Ethics.

Ethics Safeguard Your Records and Identity

Reassurance of confidentiality starts with the therapist’s personal ethics that call for discretion and respect to all privileged information you privately shared. Added to that is the protection from all the ruling bodies guarding your privacy. Expect a professional therapist to keep your disclosures confidential. Unless there is a signed consent, your information will not be revealed to anyone else. Although your therapist may find it necessary to consult or coordinate with other professionals for the purpose of providing more effective treatment for you, your privacy remains an important concern and this coordination cannot occur without your consent. The therapist employs the most reasonable precaution to keep your information confidential. There can be exceptions to this confidentiality in rare incidences (as required by law), such as disclosure of abuse of a child or elderly person, risk of harm to self or others and/or legal requests such as subpoena or court order.

Where Confidentiality is a Serious Business

Carolina Counseling Services – Fayetteville, NC takes confidentiality very seriously. Licensed, independently contracted therapists will uphold this commitment as they provide you with an atmosphere of privacy and mutual trust. Your treatment will consist of the best counseling approach for the private concerns you have entrusted. We highly appreciate your decision to seek help and entrust your most private concerns. If you have specific questions about confidentiality, feel free to discuss them with your therapist who will be happy to help you understand your right to privacy. Call today to start your journey toward recovery.