Privacy Policy
Here are some general rules about privacy and my official privacy policy, below.
Everything is Secure
On more than a few occasions, people have worked with me because they want to see a therapist but are concerned with privacy and confidentiality. As a psychologist, I have a special duty mandated by law to keep information private, secure, and confidential. It's similar to that between you and your medical doctor or you and your lawyer. By law I have to take special precautions, such as keeping my psychotherapy notes in a locked, secure place at all times.
I generally take notes on my computer. That happens more and more today, especially with younger professionals. I can type much faster than I can write, and I can better pay attention to you when I type. Rest assured the computer notes are secure because a) the computer isn't connected to a network or the internet at any point b) there's some pretty hefty encryption and c) it's a desktop computer, not a laptop so no one is just going to walk out with it.
Mandated Reporter
By law, I have to report child abuse, elder abuse, dependant adult abuse and when someone is gravely disabled. "Gravely disabled" means being unable to find food, clothing, or shelter due to a mental illness, with no one willing or able to provide assistance.
I also have to report if someone is a direct, imminent threat to themselves or others. There are also conditions where legal privilege, the right to keep psychotherapy information confidential in a legal setting, can be waived.
For Extra Privacy/Confidentiality
One option is to meet on a Sunday. My "weekends" are usually Tuesdays and Saturdays. I reserve Sunday usually for people driving long distances to see me (e.g. Long Beach, Valencia). If you just don't want to be seen by too many people, the building where my office is located is a ghost town on Sunday. On that day you can typically park, take the elevator up, and walk into my office without anyone seeing you.
For Minors
Unless there are special circumstances (e.g. legally emancipated), there are special variations in the privacy, confidentiality, and privilege rules for minors (i.e. anyone under 18). Know that in certain circumstances, I have to report things to your legal guardian and sometimes, to the authorities. Look over the privacy policy and if you have any questions, contact me. What typically happens is we (the minor, the guardian, myself) agree as to what will and will not be discussed with the guardian. Most parents understand the special nature of psychotherapy and will agree to keep what is discussed in therapy between therapist and the minor confidentia.
For those who want Someone to Sit In
I know that some people want a third person to sit in for sessions. Keep in mind that with a third person joining you in session, you might feel more hesitant about revealing necessary information and that said person is not legally required to keep things confidential. Also, if I find that the third person is disturbing or obstructing therapy, I can and will refuse to proceed unless the situation is remedied, though this is typically not the case.