LMSW Practice Test

What is typically informed to clients at the start of treatment regarding their right to confidentiality with respect to child and elder abuse or serious threats of harm?

1. Clients have a right to confidentiality that is limited by the need to report or act upon child and elder abuse and serious threats of harm to self or others.

2. There are numerous risks to treatment that the client should accept.

3. The agency may arbitrarily terminate treatment.

4. Fees may rise during the course of treatment.

The correct answer is: Clients have a right to confidentiality that is limited by the need to report or act upon child and elder abuse and serious threats of harm to self or others.

Clients are informed at the start of treatment that their right to confidentiality is not absolute and is specifically limited in cases involving child and elder abuse or serious threats of harm to themselves or others. This is crucial because it emphasizes the ethical and legal obligations of social workers and mental health professionals to protect individuals who may be at risk. By clearly communicating this limitation, clients understand that if there are disclosures of imminent danger—such as abuse or the potential for self-harm or harm to others—practitioners are required to act, which may involve reporting to relevant authorities. This transparency helps build trust in the therapeutic relationship while ensuring that vulnerable populations are safeguarded.