One of the most common questions people have when starting therapy is:
“Will everything I say be kept private?”

It’s a really important question – and the short answer is yes, therapy is confidential. But there are also a few specific exceptions you should know about. This post will walk you through what confidentiality means in therapy, when it might be limited, and how I work with it in my person-centred practice.

Why Confidentiality Matters in Therapy

Confidentiality is at the heart of therapy. It’s what makes the space safe enough to talk about difficult things – without fear of judgement or the worry that your words will be shared elsewhere.

As a therapist, I know how much courage it can take to open up. I don’t take that lightly. You deserve a space where you can speak freely, knowing that what you share stays between us.

When Is Therapy Not Confidential?

There are a few rare situations where I may have to share information with someone else. These are the legal and ethical limits to confidentiality in therapy.

I may need to break confidentiality if:

• You’re at serious risk of harming yourself or someone else
• A child or vulnerable adult is at risk of harm
• You disclose something that legally requires reporting (e.g. terrorism or certain criminal activities)
• I’m required to do so by a court order

If a situation like this comes up, I will always try to talk with you first, explain what’s happening, and involve you in any next steps. My aim is never to act behind your back – but to balance safety, trust, and ethical responsibility.

Therapist Supervision and Confidentiality

All qualified therapists are required to have regular clinical supervision. This is a professional, confidential space where I reflect on my work and get support in offering the best care.

In supervision, I might talk about what’s going on in a session – but I never share your name or any identifying details. Supervision is there to help me be a more thoughtful, ethical therapist – and it’s one more way I protect your wellbeing.

You Can Ask Me Anything

If you’re unsure about anything related to therapy confidentiality, I really encourage you to ask. There’s no such thing as a silly question. It’s your space, and you deserve to feel confident about how it works.

Trust doesn’t happen overnight – and that’s okay. I’m here to build that trust with you, at your pace.