What is a core privacy practice when using technology to deliver counseling?

• A. Expose data to anyone who asks.
• B. Store data on personal devices only.
• C. Ignore data retention policies.
• D. Protect client information; minimize data exposure; disclose data sharing practices.

Answer: (D)

Protecting client privacy when delivering counseling through technology is essential. A best practice is to safeguard client information by using secure, compliant platforms with encryption, and by limiting access to authorized people. It’s also important to minimize data exposure—collect only what is truly needed, avoid displaying or transmitting unnecessary data, and implement strong privacy controls. Finally, be transparent about data sharing by clearly disclosing who may access information, where it’s stored, and under what circumstances it could be disclosed, and obtain informed consent for any sharing.

This approach supports confidentiality, reduces risk of breaches, and aligns with ethical and legal responsibilities. Choices that expose data to others, rely on personal devices with weak controls, or ignore data retention policies contradict these standards and increase harm.