Question About Therapy Confidentiality

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Hi, 322! It might be different depending on where you live and it might even differ from therapist to therapist. Is this person a specialist in this stuff? Congratulations on your decision, it is the right thing to do!

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Just tell her the truth about your thoughts, urges and feelings. It will be ok, you'll see. Good luck!

If I may offer my opinion, I think you can relax completely.

First, it's not as if the therapist chose that profession because she wanted to punish people. She wants to help people.

Second, you admitting to merely viewing CP, is only of interest to her in regards to how to proceed with the consultations and such.

Why? Because she KNOWS that if she reports you, you will never ever again confide in a therapist, and never get any help and advice. And you will be bitter. And that's a recipe for disaster.

So don't go to a session with the attitude that you are going to hide anything from a professional.

As Jasmin says, the laws vary from place to place. Also, therapists are sometimes required to report certain things. In the US at least, most states require reporting of specific imminent threats and past or present abuse of a child. I don't think viewing child porn falls into this category. Normally they will ask you to sign a confidentiality agreement that explains all this before your first appointment.

Hey guys, in your experience is it ususal for pedophiles going into therapy to be encouraged to cut off all contact with others i.e. this forum? I know it could be just a personal decision, but is it usual for it to be actively encouraged by a therapist in your opinion?