Problem:
How to respond to this discussion In this case study, Mr. X engaged in several unethical and legally problematic actions that violated both professional counseling standards and client rights. The first major issue is that Mr. X never explained the limits of confidentiality to Paul at the start of therapy. Ethical codes such as the ACA Code of Ethics (2014) require counselors to inform clients, before services begin, about confidentiality, its limits, clients' rights, and the counselor's responsibilities. This includes providing informed consent and a Patient's Bill of Rights. By failing to do this, Mr. X denied Paul the information necessary to make an informed decision about his treatment. This is especially troubling because Paul came in with concerns about confidentiality from the beginning, and Mr. X failed to address those concerns or reassure him properly. Need Assignment Help?
The second and more serious violation occurred when Mr. X disclosed confidential information to Paul's wife. When she called the counseling center, the counselor told her that Paul was "no longer receiving counseling at the Center for marriage problems." Even though this may seem like a small disclosure, it is still considered a breach of confidentiality. Counselors are legally and ethically prohibited from releasing any client information-including whether a client is or is not in therapy-without written consent. By sharing this information, Mr. X violated state confidentiality laws, HIPAA standards, and ethical principles related to privacy and client trust. The counselor essentially confirmed Paul's client status and gave details about the nature of treatment, both of which are protected health information.
This disclosure is especially harmful because Paul was struggling with sensitive and deeply personal issues related to his sexual orientation, marriage, and mental health. Breaking confidentiality could worsen his emotional distress, damage his marriage, and cause long-term trust issues with mental health professionals. Overall, Mr. X's actions demonstrate a failure to follow professional ethical guidelines, a lack of legal compliance, and a serious breach of the counselor-client