5.6 Discussion Questions
Discussion Questions
- How can counselors uphold client autonomy while balancing their responsibilities to protect clients from harm in situations such as mandated reporting?
- What are the ethical considerations counselors must evaluate before obtaining or sharing a client’s information through a release of information (ROI)?
- How should counselors address situations where a client refuses to sign an ROI, but the information could be critical to their treatment?
- In cases involving minors or clients with diminished capacity, who should have the authority to consent to an ROI, and how should the counselor approach such discussions?
- How can counselors ensure that clients are informed of mandated reporting requirements at the outset of the therapeutic relationship?
- What role does documentation play in the process of mandated reporting, and how can it protect both the client and the counselor?
- How can counselors manage the potential fallout of mandated reporting, such as damaged therapeutic relationships or increased risk to the client?
- What steps should counselors take if they realize they may have made an error that could lead to a malpractice claim?
- Why is informed consent a foundational aspect of the counselor-client relationship, and how does it intersect with ethical decision-making?
- What challenges might arise when obtaining informed consent from clients with limited capacity or those in crisis, and how can counselors address these challenges?
- How does privileged communication differ from confidentiality, and what are the limitations of both in legal or ethical contexts?
- How can counselors navigate confidentiality concerns when working with family systems or couples counseling?
- How can maintaining clear boundaries with clients prevent ethical violations and malpractice claims?
- What challenges do counselors face in small or rural communities where dual relationships may be unavoidable, and how can they navigate these ethically?