Who is responsible for holding the privilege of confidential information in therapy?

The client or client representative is responsible for holding the privilege of confidential information in therapy. This means that the legal right to keep communications made during therapy confidential primarily lies with the client, reflecting the principle of self-determination in therapy.

Clients have the authority to decide what information they want to disclose, and they can choose to waive that privilege if they feel it is appropriate or necessary. This is significant because it empowers clients to control their personal information and fosters a trusting therapeutic relationship. It is a foundational aspect of therapeutic ethics and confidentiality, ensuring that clients feel safe to share their thoughts and feelings without fear of unauthorized disclosure.

While therapists have a duty to maintain confidentiality and protect client information, they do not hold the privilege themselves. Instead, they act to uphold the client's right to confidentiality. Other entities, such as the state government or a therapist's supervisor, do not hold this privilege either, as their roles do not grant them authority over the confidentiality of client information without explicit consent from the client.