University of Tennessee, Knoxville Statement of Confidentiality

The UT Counseling Center respects your right to confidentiality.  Although the Center maintains case files, our records are open only to authorized Center staff. They are not shared with other offices or departments of the University and they do not become part of any central University record. No information, including the fact that you’ve made an appointment or sought services, is shared with anyone without your written consent.  (The parents or guardians of a student under 18 years of age do have legal access to records.)

The Center complies with all applicable laws and professional standards relating to the privacy of patient information. The Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPPA) does not apply to the Counseling Center. However, many people are concerned about privacy in the health care setting so we are providing this information to you on how we protect the privacy of your health care information.

There are, however, several exceptions to confidentiality as outlined below:

• We are obligated by law to report suspected child abuse (sexual, physical, or emotional) and neglect to the proper authorities.


• We are obligated by law to report suspected elder abuse to the proper authorities.


• We are obligated to take appropriate action if you represent a threat of harm to yourself or to others, and we will take any necessary actions to prevent such harm from occurring.


• If you are involved in court matters, we may be required to release the record.

You have the right to complain or make inquiries if you believe your rights to privacy have been violated. In such an instance, please direct your complaint or inquiry to : Marci Burroughs, Ph.D., Clinical Director, or Victor W. Barr, Ph.D. Director, SCSC, 900 Volunteer Blvd.. Knoxville, TN 37996-4250. (865) 974-2196.