Understanding Your Rights as a Client in Therapy

 

As a client in therapy, it is imperative to be well-informed about your rights and responsibilities. You are entitled to confidentiality, respect, and a secure environment during your therapy sessions. It is crucial to comprehend that you have the right to be informed about the therapy process, including its objectives, methods, and potential risks. Remember that you have the right to ask questions, voice concerns, and offer feedback to your therapist. Your therapist should always honor your autonomy and collaborate with you to achieve your therapeutic goals. 

According to the California Board of Behavioral Sciences (BBS) https//www.bbs.ca.gov , as a client, you have the following rights:

• Request and receive information about the therapist’s professional capabilities, including licensure, education, training, experience, professional association membership, specialization and limitations.

• Be treated with dignity and respect. 

• A safe environment, free from sexual, physical, and emotional abuse.

• Ask questions about your therapy or other services from your provider.

• Decline to answer any question or disclose any information you choose not to reveal.

• Request and receive information from the therapist about your progress toward your treatment goals.

• Know the limits of confidentiality and the circumstances in which a therapist is legally required to disclose information to others.

• Know if there are supervisors, consultants, students, or others with whom your therapist will discuss your case.

• Decline a particular type of treatment, or end treatment without obligation or harassment.

• Refuse electronic recording.

• Request and (in most cases) receive a summary of your records, including the diagnosis, your progress, and the type of treatment.

• Report unethical and illegal behavior by a therapist.

• Receive a second opinion at any time about your therapy or
therapist’s methods.

• Have a copy of your file transferred to any therapist or
agency you choose.

To ensure a positive and effective therapeutic experience, it is essential to communicate openly and honestly with your therapist. By asserting your rights as a client in therapy, you can empower yourself to make informed decisions and actively engage in your healing journey. 

ETM MARCH 2025 ISSUE

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WE ALL NEED PERSONAL GROWTH