What is an example of an exception to confidentiality in counseling?

An example of an exception to confidentiality in counseling is when a client poses a danger to self or others. In such situations, mental health professionals have a legal and ethical duty to break confidentiality to ensure the safety of the client or others. This duty often arises from "duty to warn" or "duty to protect" laws, which mandate that psychologists and counselors take necessary steps to prevent harm. This may involve reporting the situation to the appropriate authorities or informing individuals who may be at risk, ensuring that the potential for serious harm is addressed promptly.

In contrast, the other scenarios involve maintaining confidentiality. When a client requests a session summary, the therapist still holds the responsibility to keep information private unless consent to share is provided. Discussing a case in supervision also typically remains within ethical boundaries, as supervisors are bound to confidentiality for professional development purposes. Lastly, letting family know about the client’s progress generally requires explicit consent from the client before any information can be shared. Thus, the exception in the context of danger highlights the important balance between confidentiality and the need to protect individuals at risk.