What must a counselor do if they suspect a client is a danger to themselves or others?

When a counselor suspects that a client is a danger to themselves or others, the ethical and legal responsibility is to prioritize the safety of the client and the public. Breaking confidentiality to report the threat is justified in this context, as it aligns with the ethical duty to protect life. This action often falls under the duty to warn, which allows or requires counselors to breach confidentiality when there is a clear and imminent threat of harm.

Maintaining confidentiality at all costs is not appropriate when there is an identifiable risk, as this can lead to dire consequences. Similarly, while discussing the situation with another counselor can be beneficial for gaining perspective or support, it does not fulfill the immediate obligation to act in the interest of safety. Providing additional counseling sessions alone would not address the urgent need for intervention if a significant risk is present; in these situations, timely and responsible action is crucial. Thus, breaking confidentiality to report the threat is deemed the correct response in this scenario, as it upholds the ethical principle of safeguarding both the client and the community.