Law and Ethics Practice Exam

In which scenario is it acceptable for a counselor to break confidentiality?

1. When the counselor believes it will benefit the client

2. Only when there is a threat to life or serious harm

3. When a family member asks for information

4. When discussing the client with friends

The correct answer is: Only when there is a threat to life or serious harm

Breaking confidentiality is a significant ethical consideration in the practice of counseling. The correct scenario where it is acceptable for a counselor to break confidentiality is when there is a threat to life or serious harm. This principle is grounded in the counselor's ethical responsibility to protect the client and others from potential harm. In situations where a client poses a risk to themselves or others—for example, if they express suicidal thoughts or intentions to harm someone else—the counselor may be required to disclose information to appropriate parties, such as law enforcement or medical professionals, to prevent these outcomes. This decision is not taken lightly and is made within the framework of the law and ethical guidelines. Other scenarios, such as believing the disclosure might benefit the client, do not justify breaking confidentiality. Confidentiality is a foundational element of the therapeutic relationship, and breaching it without clear and urgent reason undermines trust. Similarly, obtaining information from family members or discussing a client with friends lacks the necessary seriousness of threat to warrant breaking confidentiality and also breaches the client’s trust. Counselors must carefully navigate these ethical considerations to uphold their responsibility to protect client confidentiality while responding appropriately in situations involving potential harm.