It is the policy of SARC to protect the identity of its clients. Whenever, staff and volunteers discuss cases, the names, details of the case, and any descriptive circumstances of the client shall not be revealed to any other person outside of the agency except when necessary to comply with superceding law, rule of professional conduct, or court order. Names and/or details of any case may be discussed only in the agency on a need-to-know basis as part of the professional care-giving process and to provide all appropriate services.

In the course of counseling, many concerns and subjects are discussed. All dialogue between staff, clients, and volunteers, is confidential WITH the following exceptions. All staff and volunteers must report suspected child and elder/vulnerable adult abuse or neglect to the Department of Social Services or the police. Any potentially harmful acts that are committed by the client, either to him/herself or to others shall be reported to the target of harm or proper authorities in order to prevent potential homicide or suicide. These incidents must be discussed with the Executive Director to inform the agency.

I understand that maintaining a client’s’ confidentiality is paramount to a client’s safety.

I am required to keep clients’ confidences.

I will not publicly acknowledge another client without his/her expressed permission.

I have read the above, or it has been read to me and explained. I understand that a knowing and voluntary violation of the confidentiality policy will result in the potential for suspension or termination of services.

I understand domestic violence is a potentially lethal situation and in the event of my death, as a result of domestic homicide or suicide, I hereby waive my right to confidentiality. I understand information about my interactions with SARC may be discussed with other agencies as part of a learning process.