By law and ethics I am obligated to make exceptions to confidentiality under certain circumstances to ensure your safety or the safety of another individual. The most common situations in which I am required to disclose information include:

• You communicate intent to seriously harm or kill yourself or discuss plans that lead to a reasonable expectation that you may seriously harm or kill yourself.
  
• You communicate intent to seriously harm or kill another person or discuss plans that lead to a reasonable expectation that you may seriously harm or kill another person.
  
• You disclose information regarding child abuse or neglect of a dependent adult.
  
• I receive a subpoena issued by a judge compelling me to release your records.
  

There are additional circumstance that might lead to disclosure. For a comprehensive list see (LINK - GA LAW). During a situation in which I am required by law to break confidentiality, it is my policy to involve you in the process to the extent possible. I will attempt to discuss with you my concern and provide as much information as reasonable under the given situation.

Confidentiality is critical to the therapeutic process. Georgia law and Psychologists’ Code of Ethics hold the client’s right to privacy fundamental to treatment. In Georgia, Psychologists are granted privilege to the same extent as client-lawyer privilege. This means that, Psychologists cannot discuss you or your situation with other people, in public places, or in any way provide information which might be used to identify you without your written consent.

Gayle M. Robbins, Ph.D.

Confidentiality

Confidentiality might be waived in certain situations. For instance, it may be helpful or necessary to discuss a client’s situation with another professional. To do this, I must first get your written permission before I can disclose any identifying information.

Phone: 706.621.3033

1160 So. Milledge Avenue, Suite 240

Athens, GA 30605

  Licensed Clinical Psychologist & Psychotherapist