In family or couples therapy, what is essential regarding information sharing?

• A. Share everything with all participants by default.
• B. Obtain consent for information sharing among participants and explain limits.
• C. Never share information among participants.
• D. Let each participant decide independently without consent.

Answer: (B)

In family or couples therapy, information sharing is guided by informed consent and clear boundaries. The therapist should first discuss with all participants what information will be shared, with whom, and under what circumstances, and then obtain explicit agreement before any disclosures occur. This approach protects each person’s privacy while allowing the group to work together effectively, since disclosures can affect the entire system. Even with consent, the therapist should outline limits—what will be shared, what will remain confidential, and when disclosures might be necessary to ensure safety or address risk. These boundaries are revisited as therapy progresses to reflect evolving goals and risks.

Sharing everything by default isn’t appropriate because it erodes trust and individual privacy. Never sharing information among participants ignores the collaborative nature of family and couples work and can hinder progress. Allowing each participant to decide independently without consent undermines ethical practice, as the session’s direction and safety depend on transparent, mutual agreements about what is disclosed. The best practice centers on obtaining consent and clearly outlining the limits, balancing confidentiality with the therapeutic need for open communication and safety.