In the context of confidentiality, which is an ethically permissible exception?

• A. Sharing with all family members
• B. Disclosing to coworkers without permission
• C. Reporting abuse of a child or vulnerable adult
• D. Disclosing for personal convenience

Answer: (C)

Confidentiality in counseling is the default, but there are specific, ethically permissible exceptions. The exception here is reporting abuse of a child or a vulnerable adult to the appropriate authorities. This step is mandated by law and across professional ethics codes because it protects individuals who cannot protect themselves and helps ensure their safety. In practice, the counselor discloses only the information necessary to trigger protective action and does so in accordance with applicable reporting laws, often after informing the client about this limit during informed consent. Sharing with family members, coworkers without permission, or disclosing for personal convenience would breach confidentiality and is not ethically acceptable.