§4008. Privileged communications

1.  Definitions.  As used in this section, unless the context indicates otherwise, the following terms have the following meanings.

A. "Client" means a person who has actively sought or is in the process of seeking professional help from a school counselor or school social worker.   [PL 1989, c. 396, §1 (AMD).]

B. "School counselor" means a person who is employed as a school counselor in a school setting and who:

(1) Is certified as a school counselor by the department; or

(2) Possesses a minimum of a master's degree in an approved program in guidance and counseling.   [PL 1981, c. 693, §§5, 8 (NEW).]

C. "School social worker" means a person who is employed as a school social worker in a school setting and who:

(1) Is licensed as a social worker by the State Board of Social Worker Licensure; or

(2) Possesses a bachelor's degree and has been granted a conditional license from the State Board of Social Worker Licensure.   [PL 1989, c. 396, §2 (NEW).]

[PL 1989, c. 396, §§1, 2 (AMD).]

2.  Privileged communication.  A school counselor or school social worker may not be required, except as provided by this section, to divulge or release information gathered during a counseling relation with a client or with the parent, guardian or a person or agency having legal custody of a minor client. A counseling relation and the information resulting from it shall be kept confidential consistent with the professional obligations of the counselor or social worker.

[PL 1989, c. 396, §3 (AMD).]

3.  Exceptions.  This section shall not apply to the extent that disclosure of information is necessary:

A. To comply with Title 22, chapter 1071; and   [PL 1983, c. 781, §1 (AMD).]

B. To report to an appropriate authority or to take appropriate emergency measure when:

(1) The client's condition requires others to assume responsibility for the client; or

(2) There is clear and imminent danger to the client or others.   [PL 1983, c. 806, §42 (AMD).]

[PL 1983, c. 806, §42 (AMD).]

SECTION HISTORY

PL 1981, c. 693, §§5, 8 (NEW). PL 1983, c. 485, §21 (AMD). PL 1983, c. 781, §1 (AMD). PL 1983, c. 806, §42 (AMD). PL 1989, c. 396, §§1-3 (AMD).