Which scenario is a confidentiality exception in counseling practice?

• A. Risk of harm to self or others.
• B. Client asks to share a non-specific note.
• C. Client discloses a past minor offense in general terms.
• D. When the client agrees to release information.

Answer: (A)

When safety is at stake, confidentiality can be breached. The primary reason is that protecting someone from serious harm takes priority over keeping information private. If a client expresses intent to harm themselves or others or there is a clear risk of imminent danger, a counselor is ethically obligated to take steps to prevent harm. This often means breaching confidentiality in a targeted way—sharing only the necessary information with appropriate parties such as emergency services, a hospital, or potential victims, and documenting the rationale and actions taken. The goal is to reduce risk while minimizing unnecessary disclosure, and the client is informed about the limits of confidentiality as part of the ethical practice.

The other scenarios don’t meet that safety threshold. Asking to share a non-specific note generally requires the client’s voluntary authorization or a formal release of information. Disclosing a past minor offense in general terms does not imply an imminent threat, and without danger signals, there isn’t a justification to breach confidentiality. If the client truly consents to release information, that consent governs the disclosure rather than an exception.