any thots on therapists keeping notes on the patient?

[ellenrr]

I visited a therapist about 10 times.
each time she took copious notes, which made me uneasy, but I didn't say anything.
I did note that she keeps them in a big, bulging briefcase, presumably with all the other patients notes.
I am no longer going to see her.
I want to ask her to destroy her notes on me.
Of course I can't confirm she will, even if she agrees.

But if she doesn't agree, I'd like to know my options.
seems to me I am within my rights.

thanks

[Tobin S.]

1. I would think they they'd have to keep notes.

That is, if they are going to be able to study your psyche and help you make real changes. Otherwise, they don't have a record of anything that might help them help you.

As far as her destroying the notes goes, I have no idea about that.

[mopinko]

2. over the years i have seen the whole spectrum.

but i think that most dont do that much any more. no notes, nothing to subpoena. mostly they just take a few minutes between patients to do a short something for the file.
i doubt the note takers ever refer to them. the biggest note taker that i saw was also the absolute worst about sticking to the point of my visits. (also the worst of the lot for other reasons)

i would just ask. i suppose she would say no, but if it was some time ago, maybe not. the only reason i could see to insist on keeping them is for insurance record keeping. if sufficient time has passed, that shouldnt be an issue.

if she really needs to she could write herself a summary, and get rid of the full records.
and yeah, a bulging briefcase doesnt make me real confident in the confidentiality, either.