Law and Ethics Practice Exam

Under what circumstance is there no privilege when the counselor's services are sought?

1. When the patient is undergoing therapy

2. When the patient seeks help for a crime

3. When the patient requests an evaluation

4. When the patient is dissatisfied with treatment

The correct answer is: When the patient seeks help for a crime

In the context of legal and ethical guidelines concerning counselor-client privilege, the correct answer pertains to situations involving the intention of the client to commit a crime or the seeking of assistance for committing a crime. Privilege typically protects the confidentiality of communications between a counselor and a client, fostering a safe space for dialogue and healing. However, this privilege can be overridden when the counselor is informed that the client seeks help with regard to executing a crime or has already committed one, particularly if that communication poses a direct threat to someone's safety or involves ongoing criminal activity. In such cases, the counselor is often mandated to report this information to the authorities, as the duty to protect and ensure public safety takes precedence over the confidentiality that normally characterizes the counselor-client relationship. Thus, the absence of privilege when the patient seeks help for a crime underscores the legal principles designed to prevent harm and promote responsible counseling practices. The other scenarios do not meet the threshold of negating privilege. For instance, therapy and evaluation typically center on personal growth, treatment, and mental health assessments, which maintain the confidentiality essential to effective counseling. Dissatisfaction with treatment does not automatically lead to the nullification of privilege, as it relates to the client's experience rather than the commission of a crime or