Certified Rehabilitation Counselor Practice

Under what circumstance can a rehabilitation counselor breach confidentiality?

1. For administrative purposes

2. When it benefits the therapist

3. When it is clear a third party will be severely injured

4. To report to employers

The correct answer is: When it is clear a third party will be severely injured

A rehabilitation counselor can breach confidentiality when there is a clear indication that a third party will be severely injured. This principle is rooted in the ethical obligation to protect individuals from harm, which sometimes outweighs the need for confidentiality. When a counselor becomes aware of credible threats or situations that could lead to severe injury or harm to another person—such as threats of violence—the counselor has a duty to act and disclose information necessary to prevent that harm. This approach is guided by legal and ethical frameworks that prioritize the safety and well-being of individuals, recognizing that maintaining confidentiality should not come at the cost of someone's life or serious injury. In these situations, the counselor must carefully assess the evidence of risk and take appropriate action to report the threat to the appropriate authorities or individuals. Other circumstances, like administrative purposes or reporting to employers, do not generally justify breaching confidentiality unless they have a direct impact on the safety and welfare of clients or others. Furthermore, benefiting the therapist does not align with professional ethical standards, which emphasize the client's rights and interests over the counselor's.