When students talk to the SAC counselor, it's important that they feel comfortable. To help with this, most things the SAC talks to students about are "confidential." This means that what you share stays private. The SAC does not share what you talk about with anyone, unless the student gives permission for something to be shared.
This applies to most situations, but there are important exceptions to this rule that you'll be reminded about when you talk to the SAC. In the following situations, the SAC cannot legally keep information confidential:
If the student or someone else has been hurt, abused, or neglected
If the student or someone else is thinking about harming themself or someone else
If the student or someone else is under the influence of a substance while in school
These guidelines are in place to allow for open dialogue while ensuring students' safety.
For more information on federal confidentiality guidelines applicable to SAC services see: 42 CFR Part 2 FAQ's
