Confidentiality may be a concern. Social workers, counselors and psychologists abide by a code of ethics that addresses confidentiality. This means that the school social worker, counselor, or psychologist cannot discuss cases outside of sessions, although there are three exceptions.

The “Professional/Client Privilege" does not apply if:

• child abuse is suspected
• the client is in danger of killing him/herself
• the client might kill/harm others
  

In these cases the therapist must report to the authorities and must WARN the potential victim. These exceptions are commonly known as the "harm to self or others" and "duty to warn" clauses. Furthermore, consultation with another person in the "Helping Professions" is allowed and is sometimes dictated.