testimonial privilege

Testimonial privilege is a legal principle that prevents someone from being compelled to testify about what they said in confidence to a healthcare provider, therapist, or similar professional, especially when that information was shared as part of treatment or counseling. Its purpose is to protect the privacy of personal communications and encourage honest disclosures, ensuring that individuals can seek help without fear that their private conversations will be used against them in court or elsewhere. This privilege helps maintain trust between patients and providers while balancing the needs of legal proceedings.