Professional and Ethical Responsibilities Flashcards

A client discloses during a group session that they are currently selling drugs to minors. What is the counselor's MOST appropriate first action?

Answer: Consult with a supervisor to determine if mandatory reporting is required

Consulting a supervisor ensures the counselor follows proper reporting protocols and agency policy before taking further action.

Which of the following best describes the principle of 'fidelity' in counseling ethics?

Answer: Being honest and keeping promises made to clients

Fidelity refers to the counselor's commitment to honesty and fulfilling promises made to clients.

A Chemical Dependency Counselor is also in recovery and shares personal stories frequently in sessions. This practice most closely raises concerns about:

Answer: Inappropriate self-disclosure

Frequent personal sharing can shift the focus from the client to the counselor, which is a misuse of self-disclosure.

Under HIPAA, what is the minimum necessary standard?

Answer: Disclosing only the minimum amount of protected health information needed to accomplish the intended purpose

The minimum necessary standard limits PHI disclosure to only what is required for the specific purpose.

A counselor discovers they share a social media platform with a current client who has sent a friend request. The counselor should:

Answer: Decline the request and discuss appropriate boundaries with the client in session

Declining the request and discussing boundaries in session maintains professional limits while preserving the therapeutic relationship.

Which ethical principle supports a client's right to refuse treatment even if the counselor believes it is in their best interest?

Answer: Autonomy

Autonomy upholds the client's right to make their own decisions, including refusing recommended treatment.

A counselor is asked to testify in court about a client's treatment. Which document should the counselor obtain before disclosing any information?

Answer: A written release of information signed by the client

A client-signed release of information is typically required before voluntarily disclosing treatment records, even with a subpoena.