The American Psychiatric Association (APA) has updated its Privacy Policy and Terms of Use, including with new information specifically addressed to individuals in the European Economic Area. As described in the Privacy Policy and Terms of Use, this website utilizes cookies, including for the purpose of offering an optimal online experience and services tailored to your preferences.

Please read the entire Privacy Policy and Terms of Use. By closing this message, browsing this website, continuing the navigation, or otherwise continuing to use the APA's websites, you confirm that you understand and accept the terms of the Privacy Policy and Terms of Use, including the utilization of cookies.

×

In Reply: Dr. Leeman's letter makes a good point. A therapist's notification of the police to report a threat may not result in protection of the intended victim. It may, however, reduce the risk of a subsequent lawsuit. Optimal protection of a threatened individual is unlikely if clinicians are asked to function as police and the police are asked to function as clinicians.