As a clinical psychologist I was trained to treat any discussion between the client and the therapist as confidential. Only in certain circumstances will information be shared outside the therapy room. I outline my practices below so that you can make an informed decision as to whether my approach suits you.

 
1. Written reports 
Following a consultation or diagnostic assessment I write a summary or full report. I only include personal information that I view as essential to addressing the needs of the client. 
As the client or as the parent of the client, you make the decision about who to share this information with. I do not contact other services about you unless you provide written permission. Although in practice, the majority of clients choose to share reports with their GP, school or workplace, this is your decision and your responsibility to do so. 
If I feel I cannot complete a piece of work to the requisite standard without input from other services I will explain this to you so that you can choose whether to continue, or whether to find an alternative service.

2. Multidisciplinary assessments 
If the initial assessment indicates the need for a multidisciplinary approach I will obtain written permission from the parent or client before involving other suitably qualified clinicians and sharing the necessary information to facilitate a comprehensive assessment. The other clinicians I work with adhere to the same professional and legal standards in terms of client care and confidentiality.

3. Peer supervision 
To comply with best practice guidelines, cases are regularly discussed in supervision with other senior clinical psychologists and highly qualified medical professionals. However, client confidentiality is maintained by only using initials or first names in discussion and anonymising any written information.

4. Insurance companies and solicitors
Insurance companies who are funding treatment may seek information about you, for example, requesting notes or reports. Solicitors representing you for any reason may also request access to your records. In these situations. information is not shared without your written permission.

5.  Contact from friends and family
I do not share information with family members unless that is part of the therapeutic agreement and the client has given consent. 
 

In the following situations information may be shared without your permission:

1. Safeguarding

If you or a member of your family is believed to be at serious risk of harm.
In this situation I have a legal obligation to contact other services e.g. police, social services, school, GP so that protective action can be taken. Wherever possible, I will discuss this with you first. 
2. Court subpoena
In very rare situations, a court of law may formally request information about you, even if you have not given your permission. However, to you reassure you again this is extremely rare.

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In both situations I would provide only information that was relevant and necessary and defend your right to privacy.