§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:
[PL 1989, c. 396, §§1, 2 (AMD).]
(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).]
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:
B.
To report to an appropriate authority or to take appropriate emergency measure when:
[PL 1983, c. 806, §42 (AMD).]
(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).]
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).