In school-based therapy, what are guidelines for parent confidentiality?

• A. Share all information with guardians unless safety concerns arise
• B. Do not inform guardians about any progress or concerns
• C. Only share information if the school administrator approves
• D. Maintain confidentiality with guardians as appropriate, share only necessary information, disclose safety concerns or abuse per law, and document consent and limits

Answer: (D)

In school-based therapy, confidentiality with guardians is about balancing privacy with the need for family involvement and student safety. The right approach is to maintain confidentiality with guardians as appropriate, share only information that is necessary for supporting the student’s education and well-being, disclose safety concerns or abuse per applicable law, and clearly document what has been consented to and the limits of confidentiality. This approach helps build trust with the student while ensuring parents receive the essential information they need to support progress and safety.

Sharing all information with guardians ignores the need to protect nonessential privacy, which can undermine trust and autonomy. Not informing guardians about progress or concerns misses a key collaborative element of school-based services. Letting a school administrator be the gatekeeper for all disclosures places an administrative barrier between clinical care and family involvement, which isn’t how these services are typically guided.