One of the most common fears people have before starting therapy is simple but heavy: What if what I say is shared with someone else?
This concern keeps many people silent, even when they are struggling deeply. The truth is that therapy is designed to be a confidential space, but there are specific, ethical limits to that confidentiality. Understanding these limits can help you feel safer and more informed before you begin.
The general rule: therapy is private
In most situations, a therapist cannot share what you say in therapy. This applies whether therapy is online or in person.
Therapists are bound by professional ethics to keep your information private, including:
- What you talk about in sessions
- Notes and records
- Even the fact that you are in therapy
This confidentiality exists to create trust. Without it, therapy would not work.
If you are new to therapy, our article on is online therapy confidential? explains how privacy works in practice.
When can a therapist legally break confidentiality?
While confidentiality is strong, it is not absolute. There are a few situations where a therapist may be required to share information, usually to protect life or comply with the law.
These situations typically include:
- If there is a serious and immediate risk of harm to you
- If there is a serious risk of harm to someone else
- If there is disclosure of abuse involving a child or a vulnerable person
- If a court legally requires information
These exceptions are narrow and carefully regulated. A therapist cannot “casually” decide to share information. When possible, therapists will discuss these situations with you before taking action.
Will my therapist tell my family, employer, or church?
No. Therapists do not share session content with family members, employers, pastors, or friends—unless you give clear permission.
Even if someone else is paying for your therapy, confidentiality still applies. Payment does not grant access to your personal information.
If you are concerned about who can access your information, reviewing a platform’s confidentiality and privacy policy is an important first step.
What about online therapy records?
Online therapy follows the same ethical standards as in-person therapy, with additional attention to data protection.
Reputable platforms ensure that:
- Session records are securely stored
- Access is restricted to authorised professionals
- Information is not shared for marketing or external use
You can also protect your own privacy by choosing a quiet, private space and using personal devices for sessions.
To understand how sessions are structured, visit how online therapy works.
Should I be afraid to be honest in therapy?
This is a common question, and the answer is no.
Therapists are trained to hold difficult, uncomfortable, and vulnerable conversations safely. Being honest does not put you at risk; in fact, it allows therapy to help you more effectively.
If confidentiality concerns are stopping you from speaking freely, it is okay to raise that with your therapist. That conversation itself can be part of the healing process.
Considering therapy, but still unsure?
Uncertainty is normal. You do not need to have everything figured out before starting.
You may want to:
- Read more about starting therapy with Convo E-Therapy
- Learn about the professionals you may work with on our meet our therapists page
Feeling safe comes before feeling brave, and both matter.
