When might a therapist be required to violate confidentiality?
1. The client threatens to harm himself.
- If a client expresses intentions of self-harm or harming others, a therapist is obligated to break confidentiality to ensure the safety of the client or others. This is a critical exception to confidentiality where the therapist must take action to prevent harm.
2. The client shares something that is of interest to a client's parents.
- In cases where a client discloses information that indicates a risk of harm to themselves or others, including instances of abuse or neglect, the therapist may need to breach confidentiality to protect the client or others from harm. This is done to prioritize the well-being and safety of the individual involved.
It is essential for therapists to maintain confidentiality to build trust with their clients. However, in situations where there is a significant risk of harm, therapists have a duty to take necessary steps to ensure the safety and well-being of the individual or others, even if it means breaking confidentiality.
