MFT Professional Ethics 4

Question 1

An MFT is subpoenaed to testify about a client's treatment. The most appropriate initial action is to:

Accepted Answer

Consult with an attorney and notify the client before releasing information

Answer

Immediately comply and disclose all records

Answer

Refuse to appear in court under all circumstances

Answer

Ask the client whether to comply with the subpoena

Question 2

In telehealth MFT practice, which ethical issue is uniquely heightened compared to in-person therapy?

Accepted Answer

Verifying client identity and ensuring platform security and confidentiality

Answer

The requirement for informed consent

Answer

Establishing a therapeutic alliance

Answer

Conducting a mental status examination

Question 3

A client in group therapy discloses a secret shared by another group member outside the group. The therapist's responsibility is to:

Accepted Answer

Address confidentiality expectations with the entire group

Answer

Expel the disclosing client from the group

Answer

Report the breach to the licensing board

Answer

Ignore the issue to avoid group disruption

Question 4

The concept of 'beneficence' in MFT ethics requires the therapist to:

Accepted Answer

Actively promote the client's well-being

Answer

Do no harm to the client

Answer

Treat all clients equally regardless of need

Answer

Provide services at reduced cost

Question 5

When an MFT is treating a couple and one partner confides suicidal ideation in an individual session, the therapist must first:

Accepted Answer

Assess the immediacy and lethality of the risk before determining next steps

Answer

Disclose the information to the spouse immediately

Answer

Terminate conjoint therapy immediately

Answer

Contact the client's primary care physician

Question 6

An MFT receives a request from a managed care company for a client's entire treatment file. Ethically, the therapist should:

Accepted Answer

Release only the minimum necessary information required for the purpose

Answer

Release all records as insurers have automatic access

Answer

Refuse all disclosure to insurance companies

Answer

Ask the client to handle the request directly

Question 7

A client experiencing a manic episode insists on making major financial decisions and refuses further therapy. The therapist should:

Accepted Answer

Document concerns, provide crisis resources, and consider whether the client poses danger to themselves

Answer

Accept the termination and take no further action

Answer

Involuntarily hospitalize the client

Answer

Contact the client's family to override the client's decision