FAQS

You Ask - I Answer

Choosing an effective Psychotherapist is like choosing a partner - rapport and trust are an essential combination in a successful relationship. Got questions? I’ve got answers! I go above and beyond to act as a safety net for my clients. Take a look at some answers to frequently asked psychology-related questions and requests below.

WILL YOU TELL MY PARENTS WHAT WE TALK ABOUT IN THERAPY?

The College of Alberta Psychologists (CAP) (2019) states working with children under 18 requires psychologists to inform minors of parental rights to access children’s records. Records include all information gathered for the duration of service. If privacy is a concern, psychologists may consider section 19 of the College of Alberta's Psychologists Code of Conduct (2022). This section allows for a pre-determined agreement, between parents and children, regarding what issues may or may not be discussed with parents (CAP, 2022).

Regarding mature minors, the Alberta government has not provided guidance on this issue (Bala & Houston, 2015). Eighteen years old remains the defining age children may make independent decisions about their health (Bala & Houston, 2015). The College of Alberta Psychologists (2014) regards the age of 15 as the benchmark age for mature minors, provided they demonstrate an ability for ethical decision-making. If the child is determined a mature minor by their psychologist, all information shared during sessions remains confidential unless ordered by Alberta courts or in conflict with Alberta's laws (CAP, 2014).

Additionally, section 79(1)(d) of the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act (2022) offers exceptions preventing parents from accessing their children's records if doing so may cause unreasonable harm.

ARE MY SESSIONS WITH YOU COMPLETELY CONFIDENTIAL?

As per the Canadian Psychological Association – Code of Ethics (CPA, 2017) and CAP (2022), the moral rights of clients are vital to maintaining a person's right to dignity. Psychologists are responsible for respecting and protecting the developmentally and age-appropriate rights of the clients, including privacy, confidentiality, and informed decision-making (CAP, 2019; CPA, 2017).

It is essential we know moral rights exist within the context of society (CAP, 2022; CPA, 2017). This means psychologists must uphold the rights of their clients, but not at the expense of society (CAP, 2019; CPA, 2017). These circumstances may include significant harm to clients or others, diminished ability for safe decision-making, or court order (CAP, 2019; CPA, 2017).

If harmful situations arise, psychologists have a duty to warn (CPA, 2017). This duty means psychologists must support their clients’ rights to the highest degree; however, if a client poses a serious risk to the physical, emotional or mental health of another person or community, psychologists must report their concern to the appropriate authorities, i.e., the police (CAP, 2019; CPA, 2017).

WILL OTHER PEOPLE WORKING IN THIS AGENCY BE ABLE TO VIEW MY CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION (E.G., ADMINISTRATION STAFF, SUPERVISOR, MANAGER)?

Identifiable client information is not shared with agency staff members (CPA, 2017). When seeking guidance or support from colleagues, supervisors or mentors, the client's identity is kept private; only the minimum amount of information is provided (CPA, 2017). Psychologists must make every effort to protect clients' anonymity (CAP, 2019; CPA, 2017).

WHAT WILL YOU DO IF WE HAPPEN TO MEET IN PUBLIC?

A client's right to confidentiality and privacy are core values of psychologists practicing in Canada and Alberta (CAP, 2019; CPA, 2017). Unexpected public encounters between therapists and clients are not uncommon. During these moments, psychologists must be mindful of breaching confidentiality and may choose not to acknowledge clients publicly (Cochran et al., 2009). However, public engagement between therapists and clients may be initiated by clients as consent to engage is implied (Cochran et al., 2009). As a result, psychologists may feel more confident in publicly acknowledging or interacting with their patients (Cochran et al., 2009).

IF I ADMIT TO A SERIOUS CRIME, WILL YOU INFORM THE POLICE?

Regarding past crimes committed by clients, psychologists are not obligated to report them (CCPA, 2020). Suppose a client intends to cause bodily harm to themselves or others or suspects a child is being abused or neglected. In that case, psychologists have a duty to warn the authorities or those potentially affected (CAP, 2017). Other exceptions to confidentiality include court orders, client requests or the filing of a complaint or claim to a therapist's professional liability by a client (CCPA, 2020).

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