What should a counselor do when a client insists on disclosing confidential information despite concerns?

• A. Refuse to testify and protect client confidentiality
• B. Testify, giving truthful answers even if it's against the client's best interests
• C. Consult with a supervisor for advice
• D. Seek an additional authorization from the client

Answer: (B)

The appropriate action in this scenario is to consult with a supervisor for advice. When a client expresses a desire to disclose confidential information, especially if it raises concerns, it is crucial for the counselor to navigate this situation carefully. Consulting with a supervisor allows the counselor to gain insights into ethical practices and applicable legal standards, ensuring that they handle the situation competently and in the best interest of the client while still adhering to confidentiality laws.

Testing the validity of the client’s disclosure and weighing the implications is essential, and guidance from a supervisor can help clarify the counselor's responsibilities and ethical obligations. It fosters a collaborative approach to tackling complex ethical dilemmas, which are commonplace in counseling.

While it might seem reasonable to consider giving truthful answers if required to testify, doing so would contradict the fundamental principle of client confidentiality, potentially harming the therapeutic relationship and violating ethical guidelines. Seeking additional authorization from the client also may not address the underlying ethical quandaries presented by the client’s request to disclose information. In such situations, professional consultation is the best approach to ensure that the counselor is acting ethically and responsibly.