When can counselors disclose client information to external parties?

Counselors can disclose client information to external parties when required by law. This means that if there is a court order, a subpoena, or particular legal mandates that necessitate the sharing of information, counselors are obligated to comply, even if it means breaching confidentiality. This principle is in place to balance the ethical requirement of confidentiality in counseling with the legal obligations that counselors have to law enforcement or other authorities, particularly in circumstances that may involve safety concerns or criminal activities.

While obtaining client consent and recognizing situations where a client poses a danger to themselves or others are also important aspects of a counselor's ethical conduct, the specific legal requirement to disclose information takes precedence in situations where the law mandates it. This ensures that counselors adhere to regulations designed to protect public safety and comply with the justice system.