MFT Legal Issues 3

Question 1

An MFT is court-ordered to testify about a client's statements. The client has not waived privilege. What should the therapist do?

Accepted Answer

Assert privilege on the client's behalf and await a ruling

Answer

Testify fully to comply with the court

Answer

Refuse to appear in court

Answer

Provide only written records, not oral testimony

Question 2

Which of the following is an example of a 'tarasoff duty' situation that does NOT trigger mandatory warning?

Accepted Answer

A client describes vague frustration and wishes everyone would 'just disappear'

Answer

A client states he wants to kill his neighbor by name

Answer

A client reveals a specific plan to poison a coworker

Answer

A client says she purchased a weapon to use on her ex-partner

Question 3

A client signs a release authorizing the therapist to speak with the client's attorney. The release does not specify an expiration date. Under HIPAA, how long is the release valid?

Accepted Answer

Until revoked by the client

Answer

30 days

Answer

6 months

Answer

1 year

Question 4

In most U.S. states, at what age can a minor consent to mental health treatment without parental permission?

Accepted Answer

12

Answer

10

Answer

14

Answer

16

Question 5

A therapist learns that a client is engaged in ongoing elder financial abuse. In a state with mandatory elder abuse reporting, what is required?

Accepted Answer

File a mandated report with adult protective services

Answer

Encourage the client to self-report

Answer

Report only if the elder requests it

Answer

Document the information and wait for additional disclosures

Question 6

Which federal law prohibits discrimination in employment on the basis of disability and may apply to a therapist's own practice as an employer?

Accepted Answer

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)

Answer

HIPAA

Answer

Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act

Answer

The Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA)

Question 7

A client who was recently discharged from inpatient care calls in crisis. The therapist believes the client needs immediate hospitalization. What is the appropriate legal mechanism?

Accepted Answer

Initiate an involuntary psychiatric hold under state commitment law

Answer

Contact the client's insurance company for pre-authorization

Answer

Refer the client to their primary care physician

Answer

Schedule an urgent appointment for the next available slot