Therapists are bound by ethical guidelines and laws that govern their profession, and the rules regarding calling the police can vary depending on the situation and jurisdiction. In general, therapists prioritize their clients' confidentiality and privacy, and they typically avoid involving law enforcement unless specific circumstances warrant it.
The circumstances in which a therapist might consider involving law enforcement can include:
Imminent Danger: If a therapist believes that their client poses a serious and immediate threat to themselves or others, they may have a legal and ethical obligation to take action to protect the safety of the client or others. This could involve contacting emergency services, such as the police, to intervene and prevent harm.
Mandatory Reporting: In some jurisdictions, therapists are mandated reporters, meaning they are legally required to report certain situations to the appropriate authorities. These situations often involve suspected child abuse or neglect, elder abuse, or potential harm to vulnerable individuals.
Court Order or Subpoena: Therapists may be required to disclose client information if they receive a court order or subpoena, compelling them to do so.
Client Consent: In other situations not covered by mandatory reporting or imminent danger, therapists can only involve law enforcement if the client gives their informed consent to share specific information.
It's crucial to understand that therapist-client confidentiality is a fundamental aspect of the therapeutic relationship. Clients should feel safe discussing personal and sensitive issues with their therapists, knowing that their information will be kept confidential within the legal and ethical boundaries.
Before beginning therapy, therapists often explain their confidentiality policy to clients, outlining the limitations and exceptions where they may need to break confidentiality. If you have concerns about confidentiality or want to learn more about your therapist's policies, don't hesitate to ask them directly. Being informed about these matters can contribute to a more trusting therapeutic relationship.