Extends confidentiality privileges to communications between licensed mental health counselors and their clients.

This bill adds a new section to the civil practice law and rules, extending confidentiality privileges to communications between licensed mental health counselors and their clients. It prohibits these counselors from being required to disclose any communication made by a client or advice given thereon in the course of their professional employment. Exceptions include disclosures authorized by the client, communications revealing the contemplation of a crime or harmful act, and situations where the client waives the privilege by bringing charges involving confidential communications.

Extends confidentiality privileges to communications between licensed mental health counselors and their clients.

This bill adds a new section to the civil practice law and rules, extending confidentiality privileges to communications between licensed mental health counselors and their clients. It prohibits these counselors from being required to disclose any communication made by a client or advice given thereon in the course of their professional employment. Exceptions include disclosures authorized by the client, communications revealing the contemplation of a crime or harmful act, and situations where the client waives the privilege by bringing charges involving confidential communications.