Confidentiality

CONFIDENTIALITY

 

Confidentiality is the obligation not to disclose willingly any information obtained in confidence.

   These are the exceptions to confidentiality:   

  • Where there is a reasonable suspicion of child abuse.
  • Where there is a reasonable suspicion that the student may present a danger of violence to others.
  • Where there is a reasonable suspicion that the student is likely to harm himself.

Confidentiality is very important to establishing and maintaining a strong counselor-student relationship.  It is important that counselors are aware of the rights of individuals to privacy and to respect the confidential nature of information concerning students.  A counsleor, however, may consult and collaborate with other teachers and professionals for purposes of more effectively helping the student.

   Confidentiality is based on four basic principles:

  • Respect for an individual's right to privacy.
  • Respect for human relationships in which personal information is shared.
  • Appreciation of the importance of confidentiality to both individuals and society.
  • Expectations that those who pledge to safeguard confidential information will do so.