A counselling file will be maintained on any student accessing counselling services. These files are kept secure and private from school staff and others. Confidentiality is a very important part of the Family School Liaison Program. Counsellors are obligated to keep private the information gained in the counselling relationship. This disclosure of such confidential information will occur only:
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If the counsellor feels it is in the student's best interest, information may be shared with legal guardians. For older students this will occur only after consultation with the student.
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If the counsellor feels it is in the student's best interest, information may be shared with school staff or other professionals. This will occur only with written consent by the legal guardian.
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If there is an emergent risk of physical and/or emotional danger to the student or anyone else, the counsellor is legally obligated to report this information.
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If the student shares any information of physical, emotional or sexual harm to him or her or any other minor or dependent person, the counsellor is legally obligated to report this information.
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If the counsellor is subpoenaed by the court of law to release the confidential file, the counsellor must do so.
Part of the Family School Liaison Program involves regular supervision with the Clinical Supervisor which allows staff to consult and develop new strategies or approaches when working with a student. The FSLC's also participate in case consultations with other counsellors and professionals. Counsellors share cases without any names or identifying information when possible. This is a helpful process for both the counsellor and the student as it ensures the best possible counselling service is provided. Counsellors are required to share with the school administrators the names of the students receiving counselling.