Discussion :Mental Health Counselling and Confidentiality
Over the years, you have developed a specialization in working with clients who have sexual issues or who are experiencing sexual problems in their relationships. You recently attended a conference on this topic and found that many therapists have developed Internet counseling practices for clients with sexual issues, since many persons with sexual problems may feel too embarrassed to speak with a counselor.
You decide to offer online counseling and set up a website advertising this service. You receive several inquiries, including a series of emails from a 35-year-old man who says he is struggling with his attraction to young teen-age girls. He claims he has never acted on these feelings and is too ashamed to see a therapist in person. He very much wants your help.
Review the case vignettes presented in the Ethical Issues in Record Keeping and Technology interactive piece you viewed in this unit's study. Select one vignette and use it to discuss the below:
1. Identify the possible legal and ethical issues in this situation and identify the relevant legal and ethical codes that would address these issues.
2. Develop a plan of action to address this situation.
Include specific examples to illustrate your ideas, and support your discussion with references to the professional literature. Respond to the posts of two other learners.