Confidentiality is a key to the effectiveness of the counselling process, so the personal information you share in counselling will be kept confidential. There are, however, some exceptions to the counsellor’s duty of confidentiality where required by law. These exceptions will be outlined prior to the start of counselling.

Confidentiality continues after the end of the counselling relationship. There are, however, some exceptions to the counsellor’s duty of confidentiality, in particular:

1. if a child is or may be at risk of abuse or neglect, or in need of protection;
2. if a counsellor believes that you or another person is at clear risk of imminent harm;
3. for the purpose of complying with a legal order such as a subpoena, or if the disclosure is otherwise required or authorized by law.

The counsellor may also disclose information for the purpose of a professional consultation, in which case your identity will remain confidential.

If you have any questions or concerns about how BC’s Personal Information Protection Act or the counsellor’s personal information policies and procedures apply, contact us for additional information.