Confidentiality Guidelines and Information


Counseling relationships require an atmosphere of trust and confidence between the student and the counselor.  School counselors' primary obligation for confidentiality is to the student; however, that obligation is balanced with an understanding of the legal and inherent rights of parents or guardians.  Exceptions to confidentiality exist, and students are informed of circumstances where confidentially might be breached.  The student is involved the process if the counselor feels that breaching confidentially may offer parents'/guardians' insight.  Parents'/guardians' rights are respected in the counseling process and information regarding the counseling sessions can be discussed within ethical parameters.

* The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) considers school counseling a regular educational service provided by the school.  This allows school counselors to work with students without parent/guardian consent.  Although, in most cases parent(s)/guardian(s) will be notified if a student builds an on-going relationship with the counselor. Parent(s)/guardian(s) can request to opt their child out of regular one-on-one counseling services by writing a letter to the counseling department. 


Important Links about School Counselors and Confidentiality

What Parents Need to Know About Confidentiality- ASCA

Privacy and Confidentiality in School Counseling

Ethical Standards for School Counselors

Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA)



 
Last Modified: Monday, Jul. 25, 2011
 
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