confidentiality, anonymity & breeching

The work we do together is confidential. However, there are circumstances in which your therapist may break confidentiality. When you sign a client consent form you understand that we (your therapist), and in consequence our online and face-to-face counselling work together, are governed by the Laws of Alberta, Canada.

As per The Alberta College of Social Workers (ACSW) Standards of Practice, Section D.7 (Disclosure of Client Information) point (a): “a social worker may disclose information about a client without the client’s consent in the following situations: i) when a social worker believes that disclosure is necessary to protect against a clear and substantial risk that the client will inflict imminent serious harm on self or others; ii) when a social worker is required by a Provincial or Federal Act or regulation or a court order to disclose the information; iii) to a collection agency if it is necessary in order to collect a fee; iv) when the information is required for a social worker to defend against a complaint of unprofessional conduct; and v) when directed to do so by an investigator or prosecutor of a complaint under the Health Professions Act”.

A need for breaking confidentiality focuses on keeping you as the client and others safe from harm. If through our work together, there is a genuine risk for your safety or the safety of others, then I have a duty of care to raise that concern with appropriate professionals to support you further. I will always explore this with you first.