Confidentiality is an essential cornerstone of ethical counselling practice, but there are specific situations where I’m legally required to break it to protect you or others:

  • Risk of Harm: If there’s a clear, immediate risk that you may seriously harm yourself or someone else, I may need to notify appropriate parties for safety.
  • Child Protection: I’m required to report any suspected abuse, neglect, or risk to children (under 19) to the Ministry of Children and Family Development.
  • Court Orders: If a court orders me to release information, I’m legally obligated to comply, though I’ll discuss this with you first whenever possible.
  • Criminal Activity or Vulnerable Adults: If there’s an immediate risk to public safety due to serious criminal intent, or if I believe a vulnerable adult is being abused or neglected, I may need to report it.
  • These exceptions align with BC laws to protect clients and the community, and I will always prioritize confidentiality whenever possible.