What should a counselor do after a client discloses abuse by a family member?

• A. Report the incident to the client's parents
• B. File a report with the police based on available information
• C. Encourage the client to confront the family member
• D. Ask the client for more details about the abuse

Answer: (B)

Filing a report with the police based on the available information is the appropriate action for a counselor to take after a client discloses abuse by a family member. This response is aligned with legal and ethical obligations to protect the client and ensure their safety. Many jurisdictions have mandatory reporting laws that require counselors to report any suspected child abuse or domestic violence to the appropriate authorities.

Taking this action allows for the situation to be addressed by professionals who can intervene effectively and protect the client from further harm. It is crucial that counselors act swiftly to ensure the client's safety, as they may be in a vulnerable position and at risk of further abuse.

Engaging in actions like discussing the incident with the client's parents, encouraging confrontation with the abuser, or simply seeking more details may not address the immediate need for protection and could potentially place the client at greater risk. All of these alternatives may undermine the need for urgent intervention and could complicate or worsen the situation for the client. Therefore, contacting law enforcement is the most responsible course of action in such scenarios.