ABSTRACT
This chapter examines the history of clients’ access to records; and use of records as a therapeutic tool. It explores management of complex, challenging situations, such as when patients request that portions of their records be deleted, or when they insist their therapists keep no records. The US Freedom of Information Act of 1966 and Federal Privacy Act of 1974 introduced patients’ rights to examine and comment upon their own records in federally funded institutions. The chapter focuses on the ways that records can become therapeutic tools. The initial evaluation records help establish a treatment alliance, set the stage for the work ahead, and continue to be of benefit to patients and therapists throughout the course of treatment. After laying the groundwork in the evaluation phase, records continue to be useful throughout treatment. Bringing closure to treatment in a sensitive manner is as important as a good beginning. Records play a vital role in termination.
