Do therapists ever apologize?

A recent study finds that nearly all psychologists have apologized to clients, sometimes with major benefits to the therapeutic process, but other times with regret.

What is a therapist allowed to disclose?

Therapists are required by law to disclose information to protect a client or a specific individual identified by the client from “serious and foreseeable harm.” That can include specific threats, disclosure of child abuse where a child is still in danger, or concerns about elder abuse.

How do therapists deal with guilt?

A therapist or counselor can help examine and sort through guilty feelings, uncover any guilt that is out of proportion to the mistake, and help the person address the guilt in a productive way. It’s also possible, in therapy, to explore ways to fix a mistake or wrong and work on preventing it in the future.

Can a therapist ever break confidentiality?

Licensed mental health professionals can break confidentiality in some circumstances. Most therapists are happy to go over any confidentiality concerns before starting therapy. A therapist may also be required to break client confidentiality if they believe a child or disabled person is being abused.

Do therapists ever give advice?

Many therapists give advice, but there isn’t a single correct answer to the question of whether they should. If a client asks for advice, the therapist might offer an opinion, share their thoughts or encourage a client to try a thinking strategy.

Can a therapist deny a client?

“The new law will permit a counselor to reject an individual simply because of that provider’s beliefs and values. ACA and its code of ethics are very clear that counselors do not bring those beliefs and values into a counseling relationship.”

When can a therapist break client confidentiality?

A therapist may also be required to break client confidentiality if they believe a child or disabled person is being abused. For example, if a child has unexplained injuries and acts frightened of their parent, a therapist may have reasonable suspicion of abuse.

Can a therapist keep private notes?

They must keep the notes secure and confidential at all times. To avoid a HIPAA violation, a mental health professional does not want to keep a notepad filled with private information out in the open, for example.