Ask an Expert

Q. I feel like I may have some sort of post tramatic stress disorder and I want to see a counselor but I was wondering what the rules were about confidentiality if the event is still in process of legal litigations.  Can I be sure that what I say will not be taken into court?

If you are experiencing emotional/behavioral symptoms from some type of trauma, it can be very beneficial for you to seek counseling.  Such support can be very helpful, especially while you are dealing with the additional stress of litigation.

Information provided during therapy is legally confidential, with the following exceptions:

-If you sign a specific release of information form, you authorize the counselor to provide information to a specific individual or agency.  These releases are voluntary, typically last 6 months, and can be rescinded in writing at any time.

-In the event of an emergency, defined by imminent danger to yourself or others, your counselor may need to contact other individuals for your own or others' protection

-Colorado law requires that we report suspicion of physical or sexual abuse of a minor under 18 years of age

-Your name, diagnosis code, and service type information will be given to insurance and billing personnel

-There are some (rare) situations where a court of law can order disclosure of confidential information, however, it is the therapist's ethical obligation to do everything possible to maintain the client's confidentiality.

Counseling Center at DU: 303.871.3511