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First responder privacy

Who finds out?

How you get here doesn't change how I treat your privacy. Whether you contact me yourself, use insurance or an EAP, or come through another route, I don't treat the therapeutic relationship differently based on who is paying.

If a third party requires limited information for payment, authorization, or documentation, I will explain that to you. If information needs to be shared beyond ordinary administration of your care, we will discuss the appropriate authorization or applicable confidentiality exception.

My department sends me for a wellness check

A wellness check has a specific administrative purpose.

For a wellness check under RSMo § 590.192, the arrangement includes a limited completion confirmation.

Who I talk to

You and I have the check-in conversation. The appropriate commanding officer, director, or supervisor may receive confirmation that the required check-in was completed.

What they’re told

The department receives confirmation that the required check-in was completed. The statute provides specific confidentiality protections and exceptions, and I will explain the arrangement in client-friendly terms before services begin.

What they are never told

The content of the check-in is not routinely reported to the department. I do not communicate clinical information to an employer or department without an appropriate authorization or release from you, unless an applicable legal or ethical exception requires or permits disclosure.

The exceptions — the situations where I’m legally required to act

RSMo § 590.192 includes specific confidentiality protections and exceptions. When circumstances allow, I will discuss what is happening with you rather than making a disclosure without your knowledge.

A wellness check is not a fitness-for-duty evaluation. It is intended to support mental health and wellness.

This page provides general information, not legal advice. Requirements can vary by arrangement and situation.

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Questions about privacy?

Susan Rhoads, MSW, LCSW · Peaceful Healing, LLC

(417) 414-0869