Extends confidentiality privileges to certain communications to or from a licensed mental health counselor in the course of such licensed mental health counselor's professional employment, and to certain employees of such licensed mental health counselor; provides exceptions thereto.
Summary
Bill S01725 seeks to amend the civil practice law and rules in New York by extending confidentiality privileges to communications made between clients and licensed mental health counselors. This legislation ensures that licensed mental health counselors cannot be compelled to disclose client communications or advice given during their professional employment, with specific exceptions. These exceptions include situations where the client authorizes disclosure, where the communication involves contemplation of a crime or harmful act, or where the client is a minor and has been a victim of a crime.
Impact
The passage of this bill would enhance the confidentiality protections for clients of licensed mental health counselors in New York, aligning the state's laws with the confidentiality standards typically afforded to other mental health professionals. It would also clarify the conditions under which confidentiality can be waived, specifically in relation to insurance benefits, thereby potentially affecting how mental health services are accessed and utilized by clients seeking insurance reimbursement.
Sentiment
The general sentiment surrounding Bill S01725 appears to be supportive, as it aims to strengthen client confidentiality in mental health counseling, which is a critical component of effective therapy. However, there may be concerns regarding the exceptions to confidentiality, particularly in cases involving minors and criminal activity, which could lead to debates about the balance between client privacy and public safety.
Contention
Notable points of contention may arise regarding the exceptions to the confidentiality privilege, particularly the provisions that allow disclosure in cases involving minors or the contemplation of crimes. Advocates for mental health privacy may argue that these exceptions could discourage clients from being open with their counselors, while proponents of the exceptions may emphasize the need for safeguarding vulnerable populations and addressing criminal behavior.
Same As
Extends confidentiality privileges to certain communications to or from a licensed mental health counselor in the course of such licensed mental health counselor's professional employment, and to certain employees of such licensed mental health counselor; provides exceptions thereto.
Extends confidentiality privileges to certain communications to or from a licensed mental health counselor in the course of such licensed mental health counselor's professional employment, and to certain employees of such licensed mental health counselor; provides exceptions thereto.
Health occupations: counselors; professional counselors licensure compact; provide for. Amends sec. 18101 of 1978 PA 368 (MCL 333.18101) & adds secs. 16190a & 18105a.
Mental health; repealer; behavioral health certification or license applicants and renewals, required information; definition; Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselors Act; Oklahoma Board of Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselors with the Oklahoma Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services; Licensed Professional Counselors Act; State Board of Behavioral Health Licensure with the Oklahoma Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services; Marital and Family Therapist Licensure Act; Licensed Behavioral Practitioner Act; authority of first responders to administer emergency opiate antagonists; statutory references; repealers; effective date.
Health occupations: counselors; reference to limited licensed counselor; modify to limited licensed professional counselor. Amends secs. 16281, 16905, 18101, 18105, 18106, 18111, 18114 & 18117 of 1978 PA 368 (MCL 333.16281 et seq.).
AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 8; Title 33; Title 36; Title 49; Title 52; Title 56; Title 63 and Title 68, relative to professional counselors.
AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 8; Title 33; Title 36; Title 49; Title 52; Title 56; Title 63 and Title 68, relative to professional counselors.