Confidentiality

We are deeply committed to creating a safe, trusting environment where you, your partner, or your family can explore emotional bonds, communication patterns, and personal growth. Confidentiality is the foundation of our work together.

All information you share during therapy sessions—whether in individual, couples, or family meetings—is kept strictly private. This includes what is discussed verbally as well as any written records we maintain. As required by federal (HIPAA) and Missouri state laws, your protected health information will not be disclosed to anyone outside our practice without your written consent.

Important Limits to Confidentiality

While we prioritize your privacy, there are rare situations in which we may be legally or ethically required to disclose limited information without your consent. These exceptions exist to protect safety and comply with the law. They include:

• If there is a clear risk of serious harm to yourself or others, we may need to take steps to ensure safety.

• If we have reasonable cause to suspect abuse or neglect of a child, elderly person, or vulnerable adult, Missouri law requires us to report this to the appropriate authorities.

• In response to a valid court order or other legal requirement.

• For purposes of treatment coordination, payment processing (if using insurance), or required healthcare operations, with appropriate safeguards.

Psychotherapy notes, which contain our professional reflections on sessions, receive additional legal protections and are typically not released even with a general request for records.