Confidentiality: Is therapy private, and who has access to my information?

Yes, therapy is confidential, meaning what you share stays between you and your therapist. However, there are a few legal exceptions: if you express intent to harm yourself or someone else, report abuse of a child, elderly person, or vulnerable adult, or if your records are subpoenaed by a court. Otherwise, your therapist cannot share your information without your explicit consent, including with your employer, family, or insurance provider (unless insurance is being used for billing).