NBCC Professional Orientation, Ethics & Legal Issues 4

Question 1

According to the ACA Code of Ethics, a counselor may break confidentiality WITHOUT client consent when:

Accepted Answer

The client presents a serious and imminent danger to self or others

Answer

Confidentiality may be broken without consent when there is a serious and imminent threat to the life of the client or others.

Question 2

The term 'privileged communication' in counseling refers to:

Accepted Answer

The client's legal right to prevent the counselor from disclosing information in legal proceedings

Answer

Privileged communication is a legal concept that protects clients from having their counselor testify about confidential information in court without the client's consent.

Question 3

A counselor who continues to practice despite knowing they lack competence in treating a specific presenting problem is violating which ethical standard?

Accepted Answer

Practicing within one's scope of competence

Answer

Counselors must only practice within the boundaries of their competence and refer clients when a presenting problem exceeds their training or skills.

Question 4

Which of the following is an example of a 'boundary crossing' rather than a 'boundary violation' in counseling?

Accepted Answer

Accepting a small gift from a client at the end of treatment in a cultural context where refusal would be harmful

Answer

A boundary crossing is a departure from standard practice that may be clinically justifiable, whereas a violation is harmful and unethical.

Question 5

Mandatory reporting laws require counselors to report suspected child abuse to authorities. This obligation applies:

Accepted Answer

Regardless of whether the client consents to the report

Answer

Mandatory reporting is a legal obligation that supersedes confidentiality and does not require client consent before the report is made.

(NBCC) National Board for Certified Counselors Practice Test

(NBCC) National Board for Certified Counselors Practice Test

NBCC Professional Orientation, Ethics & Legal Issues 4