Are AADAC services for youth confidential?
Young people often have questions about how AADAC handles their personal information. Here are some frequently asked questions and answers on this topic.
Who decides if my personal information is released to someone else and how much information is released?
In most cases, you do. At your first meeting with an AADAC counsellor you get to decide what kind of information gets shared (your options include no information, just attendance, or assessment and progress) and with whom (e.g., parents, probation officers, school principal, social workers, other counsellors). Your AADAC counsellor will discuss with you the pros and cons of sharing information, and by the end of the first meeting you will sign a written form, a release, outlining your wishes.
Will my AADAC counsellor tell other people what I have talked about even if I don’t want them to?
In most cases, they will not. However, there are exceptions when information may be released without your permission. These exceptions include
- if you are a danger to yourself or someone else
- if you are in need of protection (e.g., because of abuse or abandonment)
- if your counsellor is required to release information by a court of law
Why would anyone want their personal information shared?
- Sometimes you may need proof of your attendance or participation in a certain program. A common example of this would be signing a release to a probation officer or a principal, so they have evidence of attendance.
- Sharing information with important people in your life like parents can help them understand what is happening in your life and gives them a chance to offer you support.
- Sharing information can help rebuild trust and re-establish communication.
What if I change my mind about the release of my information?
If for any reason you become uncomfortable with a release that has been signed, please let your counsellor know so that you can review the pros and cons of your earlier decision. It does not matter if you are at your first meeting or a later one; with your AADAC counsellor, you can always review who information is going to and what kind of information is being released.
AADAC Youth Services can be found in communities and schools across Alberta.
For more information, contact your local AADAC office or call the AADAC Help Line at 1-866-33AADAC. We are available to give you information and support.
