It's important to highlight that psychologists work under a strict duty of confidentiality. Exceptions to this rule are cases mandated by law, or when protecting others makes it necessary to release counseling details without the client's consent. Other than these exceptional cases, however, the psychologist stores the client's personal and medical data, as well as counseling details, in accordance with applicable laws, and does not make them available to third parties. If this does become necessary, they will ask for your permission in the form of a consent release—for example, if a specialist needs to issue a certificate about the counseling process to an accident insurer or employer. Many people actually don't know that clients have the right to look at the notes made about them, which the psychologist stores in a locked, secure place between sessions, out of reach from others.

One of the biggest responsibilities of psychologists is to work within proper boundaries of competence. In practice, this means they only deal with problems and life situations they are experienced in and for which they have a solid knowledge base. If these conditions aren't met, they are obliged to refer the client onward—meaning that after giving proper information, they will suggest another specialist, treatment facility, or therapeutic method and path. This can happen right during the first interview (within the first few counseling sessions) once the professional gets a clear picture of the situation, or even at a later stage of the process as you discover new areas to work on together. If the situation calls for it, a referral is highly important for both parties. For clients, it's essential to accept the suggestion so they can get the right care and have a real chance of solving their problem. For professionals, it helps protect their own mental well-being, because having to handle issues outside their comfort zone can cause anxiety, frustration, and feelings of incompetence. This can affect their performance, making it harder to stay fully engaged in the shared work, which can lead to avoidant behavior and even burnout.

The psychologist also plans the course of the counseling and is obliged to keep you informed about it. Different methodologies bring different dynamics, and psychologists' unique personalities also shape different types of counseling, so there is no such thing as a one-size-fits-all counseling template. This applies, for example, to maintaining boundaries, communication between parties, and general approach. A professional working within certain methodological frameworks might only use formal address with clients, share zero personal information, and communicate strictly via email; while another psychologist with a different framework, perspective, and personality type might welcome informal chatting, exchange updates via text, and even bring personal experiences and insights into your sessions.

Since there can be such striking differences in how professionals work, it's a good idea to keep in mind that you should only take part in counseling where you feel comfortable and see your psychologist as a trusted confidant. But remember, respecting basic rights and duties is mandatory and timeless for every professional, regardless of their methodology, perspective, or way of working.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can the police or a court look at the notes written about me?

Psychologists are bound by strict confidentiality and can only release information to the authorities under suspicion of a serious crime or a court order.

Is it okay to message my psychologist between sessions?

This depends on the individual professional's way of working, but most only recommend email or text for changing appointments.

Why did my psychologist refer me to another colleague?

They did so because they recognize the limits of their own competence and want you to be in the hands of a specialist who is much more experienced in that specific area (such as an eating disorder or addiction).

Can I add my psychologist on Facebook or Instagram?

To protect professional ethics codes and therapeutic boundaries, psychologists generally do not accept social media requests from clients.