Mental health professionals can disclose confidential information only in those cases where a client authorizes this.

• A. True
• B. False
• C. Sometimes
• D. Never

Answer: (B)

Confidentiality has important limits. While mental health professionals normally keep information private, there are legally and ethically sanctioned reasons to disclose without the client’s consent. For example, when there is imminent danger to the client or others, practitioners must warn or protect, which may involve sharing information. Mandatory reporting laws require disclosure of suspected abuse or neglect of children or dependent adults. Court orders or subpoenas can compel disclosure, and sharing with other treating professionals or supervisors may be necessary for care, under the protection of minimal necessary information. So, client authorization is not the only basis for disclosure, making this statement inaccurate.