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

A subpoena does not automatically waive privilege; the therapist should consult an attorney and notify the client to allow them to assert privilege.

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

Telehealth introduces unique challenges around verifying client identity, ensuring secure communication platforms, and addressing cross-jurisdictional licensing issues.

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

While therapists cannot legally guarantee confidentiality among group members, they are responsible for establishing clear norms and addressing breaches therapeutically.

Question 4

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

Accepted Answer

Actively promote the client's well-being

Answer

Beneficence means actively contributing to the client's welfare, going beyond simply avoiding harm (nonmaleficence).

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

Thorough risk assessment of the suicidal client's safety is always the first clinical and ethical priority.

MFT Exam Practice Test

MFT Exam Practice Test

MFT Professional Ethics 4