Chaplains are confidential. What does that mean? It means that everything you say to our chaplains remains between you and the chaplain. The only exceptions are in regard to child abuse (MN Statute 260E.06.3), elder abuse, imminent harm to self or others, and a chaplain’s right to seek their own confidential counsel.
Chaplain confidentiality is legally protected in all 50 states, including Minnesota. Chaplains may not be forced to testify in court, no matter the content (MN Statute 595.02.c). This includes the exceptions above. This legal confidentiality takes on new significance in our current political climate, where many feel newly vulnerable due to changes in federal policy.
What does this mean at Carleton? Why might you wish to talk confidentially with a chaplain?
- You are undocumented and want to talk through your situation and choices without fear that ICE or the government will learn your status.
- Someone you care about is considering an abortion or gender affirming care in a state where it is illegal and you want to talk about how to support them.
- You work at Carleton and are struggling with your supervisor, tenure, job applications, or other complicated Carleton dynamics. Chaplains are the only confidential resource on campus for staff and faculty. Unlike outside therapists and clergy, our chaplains know Carleton and its dynamics. You can speak with us, problem solve, and work through issues about Carleton without fear that anyone at Carleton will find out.
- You want a confidential, but non-therapeutic conversation. If you are a student, SHAC is a wonderful resource that is also confidential. But chaplains are not trained therapists or mental health professionals. Our role is different. We can be counselors, advisors, thought partners, and collaborative problem solvers. We can engage with the community actively and have resources, budgets, and connections that can be helpful and activated through our conversations.
Whether you are a staff person, faculty member, or a student, we hope you will connect with us. You can always discreetly schedule a meeting with our college chaplain through their calendar and our other chaplains are available throughout the week. You don’t need to be religious or spiritual. Our role is to be here for you, no matter who you are, in whatever ways you need, and provide a safe and confidential space to feel supported and cared for at Carleton.