When a client discloses illegal activities, how should a counselor respond?

• A. Follow mandated reporting laws while protecting client confidentiality to the extent possible and involve supervisors.
• B. Immediately report to authorities without discussing with the client.
• C. Ignore the disclosure to protect the client.
• D. Terminate treatment immediately without notice.

Answer: (A)

When a client discloses illegal activities, the counselor must follow mandated reporting laws while protecting confidentiality to the extent possible and involve a supervisor to navigate the proper steps. This means you comply with legal obligations about reporting certain illegal acts or risks, but you also inform the client about the limits of confidentiality and plan the disclosure carefully with supervision. This approach upholds legal and ethical duties, maintains trust where feasible, and ensures the process is handled correctly and safely.

Other options miss the balance between legal requirements and client trust. Reporting without discussing with the client can violate informed consent and erode trust; ignoring the disclosure or terminating treatment without notice can leave the client unserved and may breach ethical responsibilities.