What are my legal rights if a mental health professional ignored my expressed request for full anonymity and they sent someone to my home?
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What are my legal rights if a mental health professional ignored my expressed request for full anonymity and they sent someone to my home?
I went to a mental health center because of a severe panic attack. I was raped several weeks ago and it is under investigation and I strongly expressed that they not contact my home number because my father does not know about the rape. They sent someone to my home this evening and I had to tell my father what happened. I told them that I wanted to keep what happened personal. Is there anything that I can do legally?
Asked on February 10, 2011 under Malpractice Law, Virginia
Answers:
M.T.G., Member, New York Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 13 years ago | Contributor
I am so sorry for what happened to you. I can understand how upset you must be about the breach of confidentiality. If it is actionable, however, may depend on several things and your state case law. How old you are could be an issue and you did not mention that in your question. If you area minor your rights are very different. I might contact the state department that licenses the health center and speak with someone there on the issue. See if the law supports your filing a complaint. If it does then you can seek help from an attorney in your area. You should also seek counseling. You need to get all the support and help you can at this time. Good luck to you.
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