Psychotherapy is a professional service I will provide to you. Because of the nature of therapy, our relationship has to be different from most relationships. It may differ in how long it lasts, the objectives, or the topics discussed. It must also be limited to only the relationship of therapist and client. If you and I were to interact in any other way, we would then have a "dual relationship," which could prove to be harmful to you in the long run and is, therefore, unethical in the mental health profession. Dual relationships can set up conflicts between the therapist's interests and the client’s interests, and then the client’s (your) interests might not be put first. In order to offer all of my clients the best care, my judgment needs to be unselfish and purely focused on your needs. This is why your relationship with me must remain professional in nature.

 

Additionally, there are important differences between therapy and friendship. Friends may see your position only from their personal viewpoints and experiences. Friends may want to find quick and easy solutions to your problems so that they can feel helpful. These short-term solutions may not be in your long-term best interest. Friends do not usually follow up on their advice to see whether it was useful. They may need to have you do what they advise. A therapist offers you choices and helps you choose what is best for you. A therapist helps you learn how to solve problems better and make better decisions. A therapist's responses to your situation are based on tested theories and methods of change.

 

You should also know that therapists are required to keep the identity of their clients confidential. I must decline any invitation to attend gatherings with your family or friends. I do not accept friend or contact requests from current or former clients on any social networking site (Facebook, LinkedIn, etc), and do not follow clients on such sites. Lastly, when your therapy is completed, I will not be able to be a friend to you like your other friends. In sum, it is my ethical duty as a therapist to always maintain a professional role. Please note that these guidelines are not meant to be discourteous in any way, they are strictly for your long-term protection.

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Confidentiality  

 

Your communications with me will become part of a clinical record of treatment, and it is referred to as Protected Health Information (PHI). Additionally, I will always keep everything you say to me completely confidential, with the following exceptions:

 

(1) you direct me to tell someone else and you sign a “Release of Information” form.

 

(2) I determine that you are a danger to yourself or to others.

 

(3) you report information about the abuse of a child, an elderly person, or a disabled individual who may require protection. 

 

(4) I am ordered by a judge to disclose information.

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In the latter case, my license does provide me with the ability to uphold what is legally termed “privileged communication.” Privileged communication is your right as a client to have a confidential relationship with a therapist. This state has a very good track record in respecting this legal right. If for some unusual reason a judge were to order the disclosure of your private information, this order can be appealed. I cannot guarantee that the appeal will be sustained, but I will do everything in my power to keep what you say confidential.