If a client requests a different practitioner, what is the ethical approach?

• A. Do nothing and force continued treatment with current clinician.
• B. Discuss options, respect autonomy, and facilitate a referral if match is necessary; maintain continuity of care.
• C. Refuse to refer and terminate the relationship.
• D. Promise to switch but never follow through.

Answer: (B)

When a client requests a different practitioner, the ethical approach centers on respecting the client's autonomy and ensuring continuity of care. Start by having an open discussion about the request, exploring the reasons for wanting a change, and reaffirming the client’s right to seek a provider who best fits their needs. If a referral is appropriate, actively facilitate it: help identify qualified matches, obtain the client's consent to share relevant information, coordinate the transfer, and arrange for a smooth handoff so treatment doesn’t lapse. Maintaining continuity may involve sharing necessary records and, where appropriate, offering to coordinate with the new clinician to support the transition.

This approach aligns with ethical duties to empower clients in choosing their care, avoid abandonment, and uphold confidentiality and professionalism during a change in providers. By contrast, doing nothing and forcing continued treatment disregards the client’s preferences; refusing to refer and terminating without a plan leaves the client without support; and promising to switch but never following through erodes trust and reliability.