Confidentiality: Mandated Situations

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Questions and Answers

Under what circumstances may a therapist disclose information about a client's past criminal activity?

When the crime involves a protected class, such as child abuse or elder abuse (correct)

Whenever the therapist believes it could benefit the client

If the therapist is subpoenaed by a court

When the client requests the therapist to share this information

Depending on state laws or agencies, therapists may be required to break confidentiality for the following, except:

Substance abuse (correct)

Child abuse

Elder abuse

Abuse of people with disabilities (dependent adults)

Under what circumstances must a therapist disclose client information to protect others?

When a client expresses suicidal thoughts

When a client threatens to harm another individual (correct)

When a client requests a referral

When a client shares personal information about their life

What is the impact of a coroner's investigation on the confidentiality of a deceased client's therapy records?

Client records may be accessed if required by the coroner for investigation purposes. Signup and view all the answers

How does the Patriot Act impact the confidentiality of client information in therapeutic settings?

It permits the release of client records under specific legal circumstances, overriding standard confidentiality rules. Signup and view all the answers

What must a therapist obtain before disclosing a client's records to a third party?

A signed release form from the client Signup and view all the answers

When is it acceptable to break confidentiality with a client?

All of the Answers Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes the ethical responsibilities of therapists concerning client confidentiality?

Therapists are required to maintain confidentiality unless there is a risk of harm to the client or others. Signup and view all the answers

In the event that a client discloses having committed a crime against their therapist, what is the appropriate course of action for the therapist regarding confidentiality?

The therapist is permitted to break confidentiality and must report the crime to law enforcement. Signup and view all the answers

How does a court order affect a therapist's obligation to maintain client confidentiality?

It mandates therapists to disclose specific client information as required by law. Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary function of a search warrant in the context of therapy?

To provide legal authorization for law enforcement to access client records Signup and view all the answers

In which of the following situations is a therapist NOT required to break confidentiality?

The client committed a crime 10 years ago and was not caught. Signup and view all the answers

What is a potential consequence for therapists during an ethical violation investigation?

They may be required to disclose client information to regulatory bodies. Signup and view all the answers

How many mandated situations can a therapist break confidentiality?

9 Signup and view all the answers

List the mandated situations where a therapist has to. break confidentiality?

-abuse or neglect to the 3 protected class -subpoena order from the court or judge (court order) -suspected ethical violation committed by the therapist -coroner's investigation -search warrant -formal requests of cx's records -patriot act <ul> <li>danger to others -cx signs release for records</li> </ul> Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Disclosure of Criminal Activity

Therapists may disclose information about a client's past criminal activities under specific circumstances dictated by state laws.
Exceptions to confidentiality include when a client poses a threat to themselves or others, or when there is suspicion of child abuse.

Protecting Others

A therapist must disclose client information to protect others if there is an imminent risk of harm or if a threat is made against another individual.

Coroner's Investigation Impact

A coroner's investigation can lead to the release of a deceased client's therapy records, emphasizing the need for careful handling of confidentiality post-mortem.

Patriot Act Implications

The Patriot Act may require therapists to disclose client information to federal authorities in national security investigations, impacting traditional confidentiality norms.

Disclosure Authorization

Therapists must obtain informed consent from the client before disclosing records to a third party, ensuring client autonomy and privacy.

Acceptable Breach of Confidentiality

Confidentiality may be broken if the client poses harm to themselves or others, or in cases of abuse, neglect, or when legally mandated to do so.

Ethical Responsibilities

Therapists are ethically obligated to maintain client confidentiality unless exceptions apply, ensuring trust in the therapeutic relationship.

Client Disclosure of Crime

If a client discloses having committed a crime against the therapist, the therapist should clarify limits of confidentiality and legally mandated reporting obligations.

Court Orders

A court order requires therapists to disclose information, overriding the standard confidentiality practices and necessitating compliance.

Search Warrant Function

A search warrant allows law enforcement to access therapy records, indicating the importance of understanding legal rights regarding client information.

Situations Not Requiring Confidentiality Breach

Therapists are not required to break confidentiality simply due to client admissions of non-threatening behaviors or past actions without current risk.

Consequences of Ethical Violations

Therapists may face professional discipline or legal consequences during an ethical violation investigation, highlighting the importance of adherence to ethical standards.

Mandated Situations for Breaching Confidentiality

Therapists can break confidentiality in mandated situations including:
- Imminent harm to self or others
- Child or elder abuse
- Court orders or subpoenas
- Reports of threats to others

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Description

Explore the circumstances under which a therapist may disclose information about a client's past criminal activity. This quiz covers ethical considerations and legal obligations that impact therapist-client confidentiality. Test your knowledge on this crucial aspect of mental health practice.