What is psychologist-patient privilege in Massachusetts designed to protect?

Psychologist-patient privilege in Massachusetts is primarily designed to protect the confidentiality of communications that occur during therapy sessions. This privilege ensures that what a patient shares with their psychologist remains private and cannot be disclosed without the patient's consent. This confidentiality is crucial in fostering a trusting therapeutic relationship, as it encourages clients to open up about their thoughts and feelings without fear of judgment or legal repercussions.

By safeguarding these communications, the privilege helps ensure that clients can receive effective treatment and support. The legal framework recognizes the importance of this confidentiality for the wellbeing of patients, allowing them to engage in therapy openly. Psychologist-patient privilege is a cornerstone of professional ethics and legal standards in psychology practice, reflecting the commitment to patient privacy and the therapeutic process.