How Confidential Is Treatment In The State of Colorado?

In general, treatment for substance use and mental health in Colorado is highly confidential. In this article, we explore the fine print on laws surrounding confidentiality for treatment and therapy.

Confidentiality in Treatment of Addiction and Mental Health in Colorado

Utilizing therapy can be a life-changing tool for one’s mental-health. The goal of therapy is to provide an open and safe space for one to process current and past experiences and emotions. Therapeutic treatment is not an easy task to delve into, and oftentime very serious matters may arise. Due to this, there are times where a therapist may have to break patient confidentiality to protect their safety or the safety of someone else. 

To start, it’s important to understand that therapists in Colorado are bound by the same federal and state laws as therapists in other states. These laws include the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA), which outlines the privacy and security standards for protected health information. HIPAA applies to all healthcare providers, including therapists, and requires them to take reasonable measures to protect the confidentiality of their clients’ information.

In What Scenario Can a Therapist Break Confidentiality? 

In addition to HIPAA, Colorado has specific laws and regulations around therapist-client confidentiality. According to the Colorado Revised Statutes, therapists are required to keep all information shared by their clients confidential unless one of the following exceptions apply:

• The client gives their written consent to disclose the information.
• The therapist is required by law to report suspected child abuse or neglect.
• The therapist has reason to believe that the client is at risk of harming themselves or others.
• The therapist is ordered by a court to disclose the information.

Written Consent

If a client gives their written consent to disclose information, the therapist can do so without violating confidentiality. This can be useful in situations where a client wants to share information with a loved one or other healthcare provider.

Law Enforcement

Therapists in Colorado are mandatory reporters of suspected child abuse or neglect. This means that if a therapist has reason to believe that a child is being abused or neglected, they must report this information to the appropriate authorities. This requirement is intended to protect vulnerable children from harm.

Duty to Safety

Therapists may need to break confidentiality if they believe that their client is at risk of harming themselves or others. This can be a difficult decision, as therapists must balance their clients’ right to privacy with their duty to protect them and others. However, if a therapist believes that their client is in immediate danger, they may need to take action to ensure their safety. This may include contacting emergency services or informing family members or caregivers.

Legal Advocacy 

Therapists may be ordered by a court to disclose information in certain legal proceedings. For example, the Law Office of Stephen Vertucci explained that a therapist can provide legal advocacy in proving abuse in a marriage. This can help tremendously when fighting for child custody. 

It’s important to note that therapists in Colorado are required to inform their clients of these exceptions to confidentiality at the beginning of treatment. This allows clients to make an informed decision about whether to share sensitive information with their therapist.

So, how confidential is therapy in the state of Colorado? The answer is that therapy is generally very confidential, and therapists are bound by strict laws and regulations to protect their clients’ privacy. However, there are times when a therapist may need to break confidentiality in order to protect their client or others. It’s important for clients to be aware of these exceptions and to discuss any concerns or questions with their therapist.

If you have questions about therapy or treatment, contact us for a no-cost consultation.