Challenge Your Exam Readiness With Our Free Alcohol and Drug Counselor Practice Questions

Ethical practice requires clarifying confidentiality and its limits, knowing jurisdictional laws, and following agency policy. Many jurisdictions mandate reporting current child abuse or reasonable suspicion of ongoing risk; past perpetration without current risk may or may not trigger a mandated report. The counselor should review informed consent, document the disclosure objectively, assess for any ongoing or imminent risk, and promptly consult a supervisor and relevant statutes/regulations. Automatic reporting without legal basis (Option A) can violate client rights and damage therapeutic alliance. Failing to document (Option C) breaches professional standards for recordkeeping and continuity of care. Aggressive confrontation (Option D) is coercive and unethical. The counselor’s role includes safeguarding vulnerable populations, adhering to legal obligations (e.g., mandated reporting), and maintaining professional boundaries while fostering therapeutic rapport. When in doubt, consultation and adherence to policy ensure compliance and protect both client and counselor.