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

If the client has not waived privilege, the therapist should assert it and let the court decide whether to compel disclosure.

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

Vague, non-specific expressions of frustration without an identifiable victim or credible plan do not meet the threshold for the duty to warn.

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

Under HIPAA, an authorization without a specified expiration date or event remains valid until the client revokes it.

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

Many states allow minors aged 12 and older to consent to mental health treatment independently, though the exact age varies by state.

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

In states with mandatory elder abuse reporting, therapists must report known or reasonably suspected financial abuse of elders to adult protective services.

MFT Exam Practice Test

MFT Exam Practice Test

MFT Legal Issues 3