Confidentiality Policy

All communications, records, and contacts with me, Rev. Dr. Mary Ellen Garrigus, will be held in strict confidence.  Information may be released in accordance with state law, only when

1. the client signs a written release of information  indicating informed consent to such release,
2. the client expressed a written release to someone else,
3. there is evidence or reasonable suspicion of abuse      against a minor child, elderly person (65 years old or older) or dependent  adult,
4. the client expresses or implies danger to self or  others (Duty to Warn and Protect) which includes harming self or others to  threatening suicide,
5. a subpoena or other court order is received directing  the disclosure of information.

It is my policy to assert either privilege communication in the event of #5 above or the right to consult the client, if at all possible barring an emergency, before disclosure in the event of #2 or #3.  Although I cannot guarantee it, I will endeavor to apprise clients of all mandated disclosures.