The law protects the relationship between a client and a psychotherapist, and information cannot be disclosed without written permission.
Exceptions include:
•Suspected child abuse or dependent adult or elder abuse (by the client or another), which the therapist is required by law to report to the appropriate State authorities immediately.
•If a client is threatening serious bodily harm to another person, the therapist must notify the police and inform the intended victim.
•If a client intends to harm himself or herself, the therapist will make every effort to enlist the client’s cooperation to insure the client’s safety. If the client does not cooperate, the therapist may take certain further measures without the client’s permission.