The relationship between patient and psychiatrist is protected by District of Columbia law.  We will not disclose information about you without your written permission, except in certain very specific situations.  Emergency exceptions to this confidentiality could occur under the following conditions:

• In the event of a clear and imminent danger to you or another person, We may be compelled to breach confidentiality in order to insure safety.
• In the event of suspected child abuse or neglect, We are legally required to report this to Child Protective Services. 
• If given substantial cause to believe that an adult is in need of protective services because of abuse, neglect or exploitation by someone other than a patient, We are legally required to report this to the Department of Human Services.
• If a court orders information to be released, We are legally required to comply.

These situations have rarely occurred in my practice. If such a situation occured, I would make every effort to fully discuss it with you before taking any action.