Confidentiality is of primary concern to Andrew and he will always take great care to protect clients' identity and privacy, but it is important to note that, for all therapists, there are legal and ethical limits to confidentiality.
Everything spoken about or taking place within the counselling relationship will be treated as confidential, except in the following circumstances:
- In the rare situation that there appears to be a danger of the client causing serious harm to themselves or to others, or where there are reasonable grounds for concern that a child may be at risk of abuse or neglect by anyone (Children First Guidance 2011). Should someone need to be informed in such a situation, this will first of all be discussed with the client.
- In the rare case of the therapist being subpoenaed by a court. Counsellors/therapists are obliged to break confidentiality in this case.
- When reviewing sessions in clinical supervision. In this situation, the client’s identity is always protected.
