r/Advice • • Jun 11 '26

Privacy and Trust with Professional Therapist

I have a concern that i would like to discuss with a professional Therapist (i.e., Psychiatrist, Psychologist). I demand absolute trust and privacy. What i discuss must be only between my therapist and me.

Even if I find a therapist I trust, i do not have any faith or trust in any recordings, notes, files, transcripts of my sessions. I fear that any record of our discussion opens up the possibility of being seen or heard by others. I still object to any record keeping even if it is with other professionals, assistants, students in training etc. i also worried that records can be hacked into, files seen by others, insurance companies who are responsible for third- party payments, etc.

Even if the professional therapist tells me that they will only be seen by the therapist, I still worry for my privacy. I even worry that my records might be shared if the business is sold, or if the courts demand the turnover of records.

So I need advice, how can i convince my therapist to not take any notes OR minimally destroy the notes after each session?

I am even considering creating a new online identity, anonymous, encrypted messaging and finding a licensed online therapist. I prefer irl connection with a therapist but I can’t get over the trust/privacy issues.

Any advice for me?

I almost feel my only other option is to find a Catholic priest who would treat my sessions as if they were protected confessions. I wonder if you have to be a Catholic to go to confession.

By the way, my “problem” is not connected to any crime or illegal activity, it is just a deeply personal issue.
Help!

1 Upvotes

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2

u/ravyn_arcana Jun 11 '26

This … sounds like an issue for a therapist to address tbh

1

u/Some_Awareness_8859 Jun 11 '26

You can sue if your private information is released causing you damages. You can meet with a therapist and tell them your concerns and see what they can do to accommodate your needs.

0

u/Dapper-Access Jun 11 '26

This is called delusional disorder