Safety

Confidentiality

Play Therapy with Barbara · Barbara Keogh

Confidentiality is a core part of the therapeutic relationship. I want you, and your child, to feel able to speak openly in sessions, knowing that what's shared is treated with care and kept private.

There are, however, some important limits to confidentiality. These exist to protect the safety and welfare of children, young people, and others, and are guided by Children First: National Guidance for the Protection and Welfare of Children.

When confidentiality may need to be broken

• There is a concern that a client may be at serious risk of harm to themselves or someone else.
• Information is disclosed that suggests a child or young person may be at risk of abuse, neglect or harm.
• A disclosure is made regarding past (retrospective) abuse of a child.
• Disclosure is required by a court or other legal authority.

Mandated reporting

I am a mandated person under the Children First Act 2015. This means I have a legal and professional responsibility to ensure the welfare of children is paramount, and to report concerns to Tusla where required.

Working with parents and carers

Where appropriate, I stay in regular contact with parents and carers to support a child's progress. What's shared in the detail of a session is treated sensitively, with a child's therapeutic process respected, while parents/carers are kept informed of anything relevant to their child's welfare or safety.