Law and Ethics Practice Exam

What practice must a counselor follow when a client refuses to authorize information disclosure?

1. Disregard the client's request

2. Negotiate with the party requesting the information

3. Provide all information anyway

4. Inform the court of the refusal

The correct answer is: Negotiate with the party requesting the information

When a client refuses to authorize the disclosure of information, it is important for a counselor to negotiate with the party requesting the information. This approach respects the client’s rights and confidentiality while also addressing the concerns or needs of the other party. By engaging in negotiation, the counselor can explore potential compromises, clarify the reasons for the information request, and communicate the significance of the client's consent. This process helps ensure that the client's voice is considered in the discussion about their personal information and fosters a collaborative environment. In contrast, disregarding the client's request completely would violate their rights and ethical obligations regarding confidentiality. Providing all information regardless of consent is unethical and could result in legal repercussions for the counselor. Finally, informing the court of the refusal could undermine the client’s trust and violate confidentiality without a justifiable reason for doing so. These options all diverge from the ethical principles guiding client autonomy and confidentiality in the counseling practice.