Ask a therapist > Other > If I get counseling or help will this appear on public records?

If I get counseling or help will this appear on public records?

The reason I’ve been holding back from seeing someone is literally because I’d rather not have anyone find out including employers or family. I’ve been using my own intuition and my motivation to push myself through life but now I’m just in a hole I can’t really get my self out anymore like I used too you know? I just feel so tired emotional and mental, it’s like this mental fatigue or weight I’m unable to shake or let go. I’m just really hurt.
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Asked by M
Other
Answered
05/23/2021

First off, I definitely want to commend you for identifying that you need support and hope that you do move forward with engaging in therapy services! Given what you described, I definitely think you may benefit from thinking through some of this with a licensed professional on an ongoing basis. While it is always good to be able to utilize the coping skills that we possess in order to alleviate our symptoms, we also want to make sure that we are identifying and targeting the root cause of the hurt. You should be able to do this while engaging in theraputic services. and exploring more

 

To answer your question though, therapy is never placed on any type of public records anywhere. In the same manner as medical records at a doctors office, they are strictly confidential and can only be accessed by an outside party with the permission of the client and in most cases a written consent. There is no worry that anyone will find out by your information being "public". There are consequences for practitioners who do not ensure that all information is kept confidential. 

 

The only time that any therapy session is ever shared with an outside party is when there is a concern for harm to you or to anyone else (adult or child) whether suicidal or homicidal ideations or any type of abuse to a child. You should know that therapist are all mandated reporters in this manner. 

 

While it is totally up to you who finds out that you are receiving treatment, I would encourage you to chat with your therapist about the stigmas you have come to learn regarding therapy. You should be able to get the support you need without feeling like you need to hide it; although I do understand that that is not always the case in this day and age. I would be curious to know what you think the consequences would be from your employers or your family and friends. 

 

I hope this answers your question and helps you to make an informed descion. All the best and good luck on your journey towards healing!

 

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(LCSW)