Will my information be kept confidential?

We are committed to keeping your information confidential and secure. In most cases, therapists must maintain strict confidentiality of clinical records. Information cannot be released without the client’s written permission. There are a few exceptions where disclosure to authorities is allowed by our professional ethical standards and by law, for example:

• If there is reason to believe that there is a significant risk of bodily harm to the you or others.
• In the case of apparent, reported, suspected or potential child abuse or neglect.
• In response to a court order or summons for record of testimony.
• If you report sexual abuse by a Regulated Health Care Professional.
• For the purpose of contacting a relative, friend, or potential substitute decision-maker if you were to become injured, incapacitated, or ill and unable to give consent personally.
• For the purpose for a court proceeding or contemplated proceeding in which CSYR is expected to be a party of witness if the information relates to or is a matter in issue in the proceeding. 

Clients must complete a ‘Consent to Release Information’ form before any information is shared with treatment providers, insurance companies and legal representatives.

Our confidentiality policy will be reviewed in detail at the first appointment.

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What personal information is required for counselling service?

We collect only personal and health information we need to provide counselling as allowed under the Personal Health Information Protection Act, 2004 (S.O. 2004, c. 3 Sched. A, s.29) or other privacy information that may apply. 

The information that will be collected at your first visit include: 

• Your name 
• Birth date
• Address
• Emergency contact information 

As part of your initial consultation appointment, we may ask you to complete a questionnaire that will help us better understand your presenting situation.

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How long do you keep my personal records for?

Your personal records will be kept at Counselling Services for York Region for seven years after the date of last contact. There are circumstances where we may be required to keep your records for a longer period of time (i.e., responding to legal action).

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What if I'm late for an appointment?

We ask that you provide us with 24-hours' notice if you plan on cancelling your appointment. If you provide us with less than 24-hours' notice, the full session fee will be charged. If you are late for an appointment, the therapist will work with you for the remainder of the 60 minute session and the full session fee will be charged.

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What if I can't afford your rates?

Counselling Services for York Region has designed a Counselling Assistance Program to help fund counselling for individuals who may be experiencing financial difficulties. For more information on the assistance program, click here.

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What is your email and internet policy?

Email is not a confidential form of communication and therefore Counselling Services for York Region (CSYR) doesn't conduct counselling by email. CSYR staff do not accept invitations from clients to participate in their online social networks, nor do they invite clients to participate in their own personal online social networks (e.g. Facebook, Twitter, Myspace, Linkedin).