NAMI-GC College Outreach Program

Counseling center therapists and physicians are required by law and by professional ethics to keep all information about students confidential unless they have a written, signed “release of information” giving the therapist permission to share information with you or any other person. The only exceptions are cases of imminent danger to self or others or direct reports of child abuse. Therapists and physicians are bound by this confidentiality requirement—even when a parent or friend made an initial referral.

However, there are circumstances when it is useful to speak directly to a therapist. There are no laws preventing therapists from “listening” to what a parent or friend has to say, and you may have important historical information to share which will aid the therapist in helping your child or friend. In circumstances when you are a family member and need information from the therapist, ask the therapist to get written permission or a “release of information” from your child/family member to share information with you, or have your child/family member request a release form from the therapist.