MFT L&E Mock Exam I

Questions and Answers

The purpose of laws and regulations pertaining to psychotherapy advertising is to ensure:

Psychotherapists are performing within their scope of practice.

Psychotherapists follow regulations developed by the BBS.

The public is well-informed and not misled. (correct)

All psychotherapists have an equal opportunity to obtain clients.

A therapist starting a new practice would like to advertise in her community. What are potential ethical concerns?

There are no ethical concerns.

Could interfere with relationships in the community. (correct)

Could create dual relationships within the community. (correct)

It is unethical to advertise in public.

A gay couple comes in to see you for the first session. They state that they have been referred by one of the partner’s individual therapist. As their therapist you should:

Tell the couple that even though you have seen mostly heterosexual couples the dynamic is very similar.

Contact the referring therapist and correct the information they have about you.

Correct the inaccurate information with both the couple and the referring therapist without divulging your client’s identity.

Correct the misconception the couple has and discuss the implication of such correction. (correct)

What is the BEST course of action for the therapist to take when the client, who is terminally ill, talks about plans to commit suicide?

Seek out consultation to discuss the need for ensuring the client’s safety and recognize the importance of the client’s right to make his own decisions. Signup and view all the answers

A therapist sees a new client for severe anxiety and panic attacks, who is a recent immigrant and has difficulty with English. What should the therapist do first?

Arrange for a qualified interpreter for the session. Signup and view all the answers

How should the therapist handle the disclosure of sexual abuse made by a 16-year-old client during a session?

Inform the family that the therapist must file a child abuse report. Signup and view all the answers

During the initial session, the client mentions that she has been hospitalized several times for 'severe depression'. The therapist should FIRST:

Acknowledge her right to decide about releasing her records. Signup and view all the answers

Obtaining informed consent from clients is:

Both legal and ethical. Signup and view all the answers

The therapist's course of action regarding the elderly client's living situation should be:

Respect the client’s right to self-determination and arrange for an in-home evaluation. Signup and view all the answers

When developing a private practice, a therapist should consider all of the following to ensure continuity of care, except:

Providing clients with three additional referrals at onset of therapy. Signup and view all the answers

The therapist's behavior in assisting a couple with financial planning is:

Unacceptable because it is outside his scope of practice. Signup and view all the answers

Regarding training in treating childhood sexual abuse, the therapist should:

Refer the client to a therapist trained in child sexual abuse. Signup and view all the answers

The therapist's behavior when reluctant to bring up termination with a client after five months is:

Unethical. Signup and view all the answers

Upon receiving a court order to testify for a client accused of child abuse, the therapist should FIRST:

Consult with a lawyer regarding the matter. Signup and view all the answers

LEGALLY, the therapist should first obtain consent from whom regarding the 13-year-old girl seeking therapy?

Determine whether her parents should give consent. Signup and view all the answers

From whom should the therapist obtain informed consent for family therapy?

The mother, stepfather and 13-year-old because the 11-year-old isn’t old enough to consent. Signup and view all the answers

When a new client refuses to pay after not being informed of the fee, the therapist should:

Explain to the client that she is responsible for the payment in full. Signup and view all the answers

Regarding a client suffering from Bipolar I Disorder who commits suicide, how should the therapist respond to the legal representative's request for records?

Delay meeting the representative and consult a lawyer. Signup and view all the answers

Regarding a therapist's decision to not use insurance companies for payment, is the therapist in compliance with professional guidelines?

No, because there is insufficient documentation. Signup and view all the answers

When a school counselor refers a 14-year-old boy to therapy, what should the therapist first do?

Discuss the need to have parental consent to begin therapy. Signup and view all the answers

In consultation, what should a therapist avoid disclosing about a client?

Convey the minimum amount of information needed to get help. Signup and view all the answers

After the session, how should the therapist respond to the sister concerned about a client's increased drinking?

Explain that information cannot be disclosed without a client’s consent. Signup and view all the answers

What should the therapist do regarding the patient whose mother has bruises and bed sores?

File a mandated report with Adult Protective Services immediately. Signup and view all the answers

Concerning therapy for a self-referred 14-year-old, how should the therapist respond to the mother's request for information?

Refuse to speak with the client’s mother unless the father has signed a release, as he has sole legal custody. Signup and view all the answers

Regarding the male client who is HIV positive and fears telling his girlfriend, how should the therapist respond?

Validate the client’s fears, but remind him of the 'no secrets' policy. Signup and view all the answers

In the case of a therapist receiving a subpoena during a custody battle, how should they act?

Assert privilege on behalf of the client. Signup and view all the answers

When a therapist is asked to testify despite believing it is not in the client's best interest, they should:

Obtain a release to consult with the client’s lawyer to explain concerns. Signup and view all the answers

What should a therapist do when they receive a subpoena from a client's ex-wife's lawyer?

Consult with a lawyer regarding the matter. Signup and view all the answers

How should the therapist handle a 15-year-old client disclosing sexual activity with a younger girlfriend?

Remind the client of the limits of confidentiality as it relates to sex between minors. Signup and view all the answers

What initial intervention should a therapist conduct regarding a client's upset over her mother-in-law disciplining her child?

Assess how client has handled issues with mother-in-law in the past. Signup and view all the answers

What action should a therapist take regarding a group session where a high school kid shares that his friend sent naked pictures?

File a child abuse report immediately. Signup and view all the answers

When a client wants to see their records, but the therapist believes it could be harmful, what should the therapist do?

Explain why viewing the records would be harmful. Signup and view all the answers

A 16-year-old client reports inappropriate touching by a past therapist. What should the current therapist do?

Make a child abuse report. Signup and view all the answers

In response to a wary client asking about confidentiality, what is the most appropriate therapist response?

Review the client’s understanding of the limits of confidentiality. Signup and view all the answers

If a female client with a history of suicide attempts expresses an immediate desire to end her life, what is the therapist's NEXT step?

Initiate an involuntary hospitalization. Signup and view all the answers

If a client recently lost her job and can no longer afford her co-payment, what should the therapist do?

Slide her fee to accommodate the client’s income. Signup and view all the answers

How should the therapist initially respond to the request from a neighbor for counseling services for her son?

Explain it’s unethical to treat the son because he is your neighbor. Signup and view all the answers

What should the therapist do when a 15-year-old client reveals that she has started having sex?

Discuss the risks of unprotected sex. Signup and view all the answers

If a therapist receives a court order for a former client’s records but is concerned about the harm it may cause, what must the therapist do?

Consult with a lawyer regarding the matter. Signup and view all the answers

How should the therapist respond to a client who reports feeling unsafe due to threats from a family member?

Assist the client in developing a safety plan and refer to a psychiatrist. Signup and view all the answers

What action should a therapist take upon hearing about a neighbor hitting their child?

Must report the incident to CPS immediately. Signup and view all the answers

What should the therapist do if a 78-year-old client expresses fear for her safety due to threats from her daughter-in-law?

File a mandated report with Adult Protective Services. Signup and view all the answers

When a father demands to know if his son is gay, what should the therapist's most appropriate response be?

Explain to the parents that confidentiality prohibits the therapist from sharing information. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following situations could be considered a breach of ethical conduct by a therapist?

Emailing with the client between sessions. Signup and view all the answers

What should the therapist do first in response to a client who has experienced neglect from a caregiver?

Assess client for potential suicide. Signup and view all the answers

After experiencing personal loss, how should a therapist handle her own feelings while working with children?

Address grief and loss issues in personal psychotherapy. Signup and view all the answers

What should the therapist do when a client makes a vague threat towards his former boss?

Remind client you are a mandated reporter. Signup and view all the answers

In an initial therapy session, if the couple reports frequent physical arguments, what should the therapist FIRST address?

Discuss a safety plan. Signup and view all the answers

If a court-ordered client with a history of violence expresses intentions to harm someone, what should the therapist do?

Inform the police. Signup and view all the answers

What should a therapist do if a client discloses a past murder during therapy?

Notify the police. Signup and view all the answers

What should the therapist FIRST do if a client expresses suicidal ideation?

Call 911 immediately. Signup and view all the answers

Which situation constitutes an unethical dual relationship?

A therapist continues to receive services from a massage therapist who became a client after having provided services for the therapist. Signup and view all the answers

What is one right that a client with an involuntary hospital admission does NOT have?

Leave the hospital when he chooses. Signup and view all the answers

In the case of a client with schizophrenia who has assaulted his father, what should the therapist do first?

Work toward emergency psychiatric commitment. Signup and view all the answers

What should the therapist do legally when a sixteen-year-old girl shares that she has been abused?

Report child abuse. Signup and view all the answers

How should a therapist respond to a client with a history of depression who is expressing suicidal thoughts?

Discuss voluntary hospitalization. Signup and view all the answers

What should a therapist do first when a client expresses fear over a jealous and physically aggressive partner?

Discuss a safety plan to escape the violence. Signup and view all the answers

If a therapist in an outpatient setting is dealing with a delusional and paranoid client who threatens to kill their husband, what is the best course of action?

Call the police and warn them of the client’s statement and behavior. Signup and view all the answers

What action should the therapist take upon evaluating a client with a broken jaw who is hiding potential domestic abuse?

Make a safety plan for the client. Signup and view all the answers

What legal obligation does a therapist have when a 17-year-old client reports being raped and is worried about potential pregnancy?

Report child abuse. Signup and view all the answers

Under what conditions would a therapist violate California law regarding record keeping?

Refused to allow a client access to his or her records. Signup and view all the answers

Which items are legally required to be included in a summary of records?

Informed consent for treatment. Signup and view all the answers

What is a therapist’s legal obligation when subletting an office with limited space for file storage?

Secure a locked file cabinet elsewhere with clients’ files. Signup and view all the answers

What should a therapist do when discovering that a colleague has developed a personal relationship with a client’s spouse?

Meet with a supervisor to address the ethical violation. Signup and view all the answers

What legal requirement must a therapist fulfill when starting to accept insurance and using an electronic billing system?

Comply with HIPAA requirements. Signup and view all the answers

What must a therapist do before recording sessions for training purposes?

Explain the purpose of recording, discuss who will have access to the recording, obtain written consent. Signup and view all the answers

In response to a managed care company's denial of treatment for a client with anxiety, what should the therapist do?

Appeal the managed care company’s decision. Signup and view all the answers

How should a therapist handle a case where they lack experience with a client suffering from Anorexia Nervosa?

Employ supervision with someone who specializes in treating eating disorders. Signup and view all the answers

How should a therapist ethically handle a scenario with a client approaching maximum therapy sessions?

Discuss the need for termination and the client’s preferences about referrals. Signup and view all the answers

What should a therapist do when a utilization review agent states a client with PTSD is only authorized for a limited number of sessions?

Express disagreement and advocate for the client's needs. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Client Interaction and Ethical Considerations

Acknowledge a client's right to privacy and the importance of informed consent in therapy.
In cases of emotional distress, prioritize client autonomy while addressing any resistance to sharing sensitive information.
Therapists are responsible for clarifying the limits of confidentiality regarding client disclosures.

Legal and Ethical Practice in Therapy

Informed consent is both a legal and ethical requirement for therapists.
Therapists should refrain from practicing outside their scope of competence, recognizing when referral or consultation is necessary.
Legal rights may differ between parents regarding minors; understanding custody arrangements is crucial.

Client Welfare and Therapist Responsibility

A therapist must assess risks to clients, especially those expressing harmful thoughts or exhibiting distressing behaviors.
Confidentiality should be maintained unless there is an imminent risk to the client or others, requiring disclosure to relevant authorities.
When receiving court orders for client records, therapists should weigh the potential impact on the client before releasing information.

Special Situations and Vulnerable Populations

Mandated reporting is required in cases of suspected child abuse or elder neglect to protect vulnerable individuals.
Therapists should be cautious when dealing with adolescents, ensuring they understand the importance of consent and safeguarding their well-being.
Emotional and domestic issues, such as those encountered in couples therapy, must be managed delicately with respect to individual autonomy.

Therapy Practice Management

Private practice therapists should have contingency plans, including professional wills and procedures for emergencies.
Alternative resources and referrals should be made available to clients in case of therapist absence to ensure continuity of care.
Addressing payment issues while maintaining ethical standards is vital for ongoing client care.

Handling Ethical Dilemmas

Therapists facing ethical dilemmas should consult colleagues or supervisors for guidance.
It’s essential for therapists to actively seek help in cases where conflicts of interest may arise, such as overlapping client relationships.

Client Rights and Therapist Limitations

Clients must be informed about their rights, including accessing their records and knowing whom to contact for concerns about therapy.
Concerns raised by family members regarding a client’s welfare should be addressed thoughtfully, balancing client confidentiality and family safety.
Therapists have ethical obligations while managing cases that involve potential harm, requiring assessments of risks and careful response to disclosures from clients.### Client Disclosure Response
Therapist should assist the client in developing a safety plan and refer to a psychiatrist to ensure immediate and long-term safety needs are addressed.

Therapist's Legal Obligations Regarding Abuse

A therapist has the obligation to report incidents of child abuse seen indirectly (e.g., from a neighbor), potentially informing Child Protective Services (CPS).

Elder Abuse Reporting

In situations of threat or intimidation, file a mandated report with Adult Protective Services to protect the vulnerable elder client.

Confidentiality in Therapy

The therapist must explain the limits of confidentiality when parents inquire about their child's sexual orientation, highlighting the importance of trust in the therapeutic process.

Ethical Conduct in Therapy

Breaches of ethical conduct may include inappropriate personal interactions, like inviting clients to social events or communicating outside sessions.

Prioritizing Client Safety

Assess for potential suicide risk when a client expresses overwhelming feelings, particularly after significant life changes like medical amputation and caregiving issues.

Therapist's Personal Trauma

When therapists' personal experiences affect their professional practice, it is crucial to consult with colleagues or engage in personal psychotherapy to manage countertransference.

Addressing Client Threats

If a client makes vague threats, it's essential to insist on clarification and understand the context of their feelings regarding past conflicts.

Dealing with Domestic Violence

Implement immediate discussions about a safety plan in cases where physical altercations occur in relationships, prioritizing the safety of all parties involved.

Managing Threats of Violence

Therapist should document any threats made by clients, while reminding them of mandated reporting obligations if their safety or others' safety is at risk.

Disclosure of Serious Crimes

Informed disclosure of past crimes should lead to police notification unless certain conditions regarding age or circumstances of the victim apply, focusing first on exploring the client's feelings.

Suicidal Ideation Response

Immediate action is required to ensure safety, including potentially contacting emergency services if a client has taken an overdose.

Ethical Dual Relationships

Dual relationships can become unethical when they occur within the therapist's professional context; interactions should be navigated carefully.

Client Rights in Hospitalization

Involuntary admission does not negate a client's rights, including the right to refuse treatment and to confidentiality, though certain conditions apply.

Crisis Response with Psychotic Clients

When facing threats from a client experiencing psychosis, the therapist must prioritize client and public safety by warning appropriate parties.

Mandatory Reporting in Sexual Assault Cases

Therapists must report cases of rapes of minors regardless of the client's desire for confidentiality, ensuring the protection of the individual involved.

Records Management Compliance

Ethical obligations require that therapists do not deny clients access to records, maintain confidentiality, and store records securely.

Balancing Client and Agency Interests

Therapists should advocate for clients’ needs while being aware of agency constraints and legal requirements tied to insurance coverage.

Advertisement Ethics

Psychotherapy advertising must be truthful to ensure that the public is informed accurately, preventing misleading information about services offered.

Professional Development and Ethical Responsibility

When acquiring new skills through supervision or training, therapists must obtain informed consent from clients before recording sessions.

Underinsurance and Continued Care

In cases of denied insurance coverage, therapists should explore community resource options to support clients who cannot afford necessary treatment.

Terminology in Client Presentations

Understanding cultural and linguistic differences in client presentations is essential; arranging for interpreters is crucial when language barriers exist.

Handling Trauma Disclosures

When faced with sensitive disclosures of past trauma, therapists should normalize reactions and ensure appropriate referrals for trauma-focused care and stability.

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Description

Test your knowledge with the MFT L&E Mock Exam I from the Therapist Development Center. This quiz focuses on critical scenarios and ethical considerations in therapy practice. Perfect for those preparing for licensure exams.