Confidentiality

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Counselling

Confidentialty
The Counselling Service at Maynooth University is a professional and confidential Service. It adheres to the ethical framework for good practice as set out by the Irish Association of Universities and College Counsellors and other professional bodies that counsellors are affiliated with. The Counselling Service also adheres to its reporting responsibilities under Children First: National Guidance for the Protection and Welfare of Children (2011).

Confidentiality is a central and integral part of the counselling process. It offers safety and privacy to those who choose to discuss personal and private concerns and it safeguards against any inappropriate or unnecessary disclosures. Information, written or verbal, given to the Counselling Service will be held in the strictest confidence.

LImits to Confidentiality

Limits to Confidentiality
In exceptional circumstances counsellors may need to break confidentiality. This occurs:

1. If a strong belief or evidence exists that there is a serious risk of harm or danger to either the client or another individual. This may relate to issues surrounding physical, emotional or sexual abuse, concerns for child protection, rape, self-harm, suicidal intent or criminal activity.

2. Occasions when disclosure is required as part of a legal process or Garda investigation. In such instances information may be disclosed to significant others or appropriate third parties without permission being sought. Where possible a full explanation will be given to the client regarding the necessary procedures and intended actions that may need to be taken.

Sharing of Information

On occasion it is beneficial for both client and counsellor to share information with another support service, medical practitioner, academic department or external party. Apart from exceptions pertaining to the limits to confidentiality sharing of information is always conducted in collaboration with the client. Confirmation of attendance at the Service, or any information, written or verbal given by the client will not be disclosed to a third party without the client’s written permission. This is obtained by signing the service Release of Information Form. This form must be completed prior to any disclosure being made. For further information see our Confidentiality Policy

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Confidentiality

LImits to Confidentiality

Sharing of Information