717-686-3420
shelby@forestviewwellness.com
Confidentiality for
First Responders
Confidentiality is everything—especially for First Responders. You need to know that what you say to me stays with me- whether I'm seeing you in my office or at your department for a one-on-one critical incident stress debriefing. The fear of word getting back to your department, your crew, or your command can keep a lot of people from reaching out in the first place. At ForestView First Responder Wellness and Mental Health, your privacy is protected by Pennsylvania law and by ethics. The goal is to continuously build trust and rapport so that you know that you can talk freely, unload the heavy stuff, and work through it all without worrying about judgment or career fallout.
The Details of Confidentiality
What stays confidential:
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Everything you share in your appointments with me—your thoughts, experiences, and personal information.
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Session notes and records (only taken during mental health therapy), which are securely stored in the HIPAA compliant EHS software called SimplePractice and not shared without your written consent.
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The fact that you’re even receiving therapy, unless you choose to disclose it.
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Any communication between you and me, including phone calls, emails, or messages related to your care.
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Any diagnosis that may be noted during your mental health therapy.
Exceptions to confidentiality (required by Pennsylvania law):
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If you disclose a plan and an intention to die by suicide.
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If you disclose that your plan and intend to harm a named third party.
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If there’s suspicion or disclosure of abuse or neglect involving a child, an older adult, or a dependent person.
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If a court orders the release of records or testimony through a valid subpoena or court order.
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If you file a complaint or lawsuit against your therapist, limited information may be shared to respond to that claim.
These exceptions are rare, but they exist to keep everyone safe while maintaining as much privacy as possible.