What’s your confidentiality policy?

Your privacy is important to us. We follow federal HIPAA guidelines and all communication must be approved by you with written consent. Your treatment will be completely confidential at our centers. This is not just a policy; it is a promise, backed by federal law and our core ethical commitment to you and your recovery.

We understand that fear of disclosure is one of the biggest barriers that prevents people from seeking help for addiction. Concerns about your employer finding out, losing your professional license, or facing judgment from family and friends are valid and real. That is why we want to be absolutely clear: your privacy is protected by some of the strongest patient confidentiality laws in the entire healthcare system. At Discovery Point Retreat, we don’t just follow these laws — we embrace them as a cornerstone of the safe, trusting environment that makes healing possible.

The Two Layers of Your Legal Protection

Your confidentiality as a patient at a substance abuse treatment facility is protected by two powerful federal laws: HIPAA and 42 CFR Part 2. It is important to understand both, as they work together to provide a comprehensive shield around your information. The table below outlines what each law is and what it means for you in practice.

42 CFR Part 2: The Gold Standard of Privacy

While most people have heard of HIPAA, many are not aware of 42 CFR Part 2. This law is what makes confidentiality at a substance abuse treatment center like Discovery Point Retreat so robust. It was created specifically to address the intense stigma associated with addiction and to encourage people to seek treatment without fear of reprisal.

Under 42 CFR Part 2, the rule is simple: we cannot disclose any information that would identify you as a patient, in any way, to anyone, without your specific written consent. This means we cannot confirm or deny your status as a patient if someone calls to ask. We cannot speak to your spouse, parents, or children about your treatment without your signed consent. Your employer has no right to know you are in treatment unless you choose to tell them. We cannot coordinate care with your primary care physician or any other medical provider without your explicit permission.

Consent under 42 CFR Part 2 must be specific. A general consent form is not enough. You must sign a form that specifies exactly what information can be shared, with whom it can be shared, and for what purpose. You are in complete control of your information at all times.

What Confidentiality Looks Like in Practice at Discovery Point

Federal laws are the foundation, but our commitment to your privacy is woven into the fabric of our daily operations. From the very first time you call us, the conversation is 100% confidential. Our admissions team is trained to handle your inquiry with the utmost discretion.

During the admissions process, you will work with your primary therapist to determine who, if anyone, you want to be involved in your treatment. You will sign specific consent forms for any family members, employers, or medical providers you want us to communicate with. If you don’t sign a form, we don’t talk to them. You can also revoke your consent at any time, and you can specify what kind of information can be shared. For example, you might give us permission to talk to your spouse about family therapy session schedules, but not about the content of your individual therapy sessions.

Our staff — from our therapists and nurses to our support team — are all rigorously trained in our confidentiality policies. We also foster a culture of respect among our clients, where what is shared in group therapy stays in group therapy.

You Are in Control of Your Story

Deciding to seek treatment for addiction is a courageous first step. You should not have to take that step in fear. At Discovery Point Retreat, your story is yours to tell, on your own terms, and on your own timeline. We are here to provide a safe, confidential, and healing environment where you can focus on what truly matters: your recovery. Our three Texas locations in Waxahachie, Ennis, and Dallas are all committed to this standard.