These include the purposes, goals, techniques, and limitations of counseling. The counselors should discuss their qualifications, their credentials, their relevant experience, their approach to counseling and provisions for continuation of service should the counselor become unavailable to continue treatment. You should also explain fees, billing, and procedures in case of nonpayment. If any supervisors or peers will review records, this should be noted in the informed consent procedure. [1] X Research source
This applies to electronic communications as well, including after hour phone calls, text messages, email, and skype sessions. You should discuss how confidentiality shall be maintained in such circumstances, and what risks to client confidentiality emerge when you are contacted after hours.
It is advisable that you keep a copy of the form in the lobby so that patients can read it before speaking to you. [3] X Research source
You should inform anyone with whom you reside what areas are off limits. You should also make it clear to anyone around when a phone call is confidential. Close the door and inform them that they should leave you alone. [7] X Research source
When there are multiple clients, such as with family counselling, then the counselor should only provide records relevant to the individual client, not other clients in the group. [9] X Research source
With minors it is important to also obtain consent from parents before releasing information to a third party[10] X Research source
Confidentiality is waived when the client makes threats of suicide or homicide. It is also waived when information is disclosed relevant to the abuse of children or the elderly. [11] X Research source Depending on the state in which you operate, you might be required to reveal to a third party when your client has a life-threatening disease that could be communicated to said third party. [12] X Research source If a court subpoenas your records you should ask for written consent from your client. If that is not forthcoming, it is your responsibility to try to limit or prevent the disclosure of records. [13] X Research source
When a counselor finds him or herself in a situation where maintaining a client’s confidentiality becomes a problem, consulting with colleagues and/or a direct supervisor can help the counselor with appropriate decision-making. A counselor may also discuss confidentiality concerns with his or her own therapist, so long as they don’t reveal information that may identify the client being discussed.
