Law and Ethics Practice Exam

What should a therapist do if they are contacted by a new therapist for information about a client?

1. Provide information about the client's treatment history

2. Only share information if the client agrees

3. Decline to answer any questions

4. Refer the new therapist back to the client

The correct answer is: Provide information about the client's treatment history

In situations where a therapist is approached by a new therapist for information regarding a client, the most appropriate course of action is to only share information if the client agrees. This upholds the confidentiality and trust that is fundamental to the client-therapist relationship. Therapists have an ethical duty to protect their clients' privacy, which is reinforced by various legal standards, including those specified in HIPAA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act). The client’s prior consent is essential before any information can be shared with a new therapist. This ensures that the client maintains control over their personal information and fosters trust in the therapeutic relationship. While providing information about the client's treatment history may seem beneficial for continuity of care, it can only be done ethically and legally when the client has explicitly agreed to such a disclosure. Without the client’s consent, sharing any information could lead to a breach of confidentiality, which is a serious ethical violation.