Question
Answered step-by-step
MsTrayTray406
When discussing the rules of confidentiality between helper and…
When discussing the rules of confidentiality between helper and client, all involved with a treatment team have an immense responsibility to a Code of Ethics, State law, the client, and to themselves. (Woodside, M. & McClam, T. 2016.). The American Counseling Association Code of Ethics, Section B, covers the clear understanding of Confidentiality, and Privacy between helper and client. (ACA Code of Ethics. 2014.). However, there are several instances where the helper has a legal, and moral obligation to keep confidentiality and to break confidentiality.
Those specific instances are discussed below.
Within the social work profession, a fundamental obligation by all involved is that of confidentiality. Confidentiality will help to build trust between the helper, and client, and foster a blossoming relationship. (Woodside, M. & McClam, T. 2016.). However, within that relationship of trust is the ethical obligation to ensure the safety of both the client and the community. As well as family members, and the helper themselves. (Woodside, M. & McClam, T. 2016.). There is a litany of occasions when confidentiality must be kept, and when confidentiality must be broken. As with any client/helper relationship, the goal is to coach the client in gaining the ability to develop abstract thought, make their own decisions, and be their guardian. This is achieved by including the client in every step of the treatment plan developed for them. This will also build the trust that the helper has the client’s best interests in mind. (Woodside, M. & McClam, T. 2016.).
It is the Case Manager’s ethical responsibility to keep client information confidential. Except when doing so would cause harm to themselves or the community at large or family members. (Woodside, M. & McClam, T. 2016.). The ACA Code of Ethics, Section B, paragraphs (a), through (e), cover at greater depth some of the areas that are mandated for breaking confidentiality. Such mandates as Court-Ordeereed disclosure, infectious disease, end-of-life, and serious or foreseeable harm. (ACA Code of Ethics. 2014). Some basic examples would be, a father whose parental rights are terminated, and the judge orders out-patient mental health services, and then requires updates as to the progress. Or, a Veteran who is not on their medications, acting violently, and is known to possess weapons. It is mandated by Federal law to include the local police agencies, their treatment team, and the county VSO. ( VA.gov.). While the goal of all professional helpers is to help the client achieve autonomy, special consideration when drawing up an assessment and treatment plan is to get to know the client, their strengths and weaknesses, and their ability to make their decisions. (Woodside, M. & McClam, T. 2016.). Once this information is researched, then the helper/client relationship can build trust, openness, and eventual autonomy is able.
Question: You are a social worker, and your clients are combat Veterans. A client tells you they possess firearms. They are verbally indicating that they hold suicidal/homicidal ideation. How would you assess, and resolve this situation with the least invasive action?
References:
American Counseling Association, 2014, Section B, 2(a) through 2(e).
VA.gov
Woodside, M. & McClam, T. (2018). Generalist case management: A method of human service delivery (5th ed.). Cengage Learning
