Full Answer Section

Another argument for respecting the client’s confidentiality is that the client has a right to privacy. This right is protected by law and by the ethical codes of most mental health professions. Breaking confidentiality without a client’s consent would be a violation of their privacy rights.

Argument for Method 2: Breaking Confidentiality to Protect the Client

One argument for breaking the client’s confidentiality is to protect her from harming herself. Suicide is a serious public health problem, and therapists have a duty to do everything they can to prevent it. If Marybeth believes that the client is in imminent danger of suicide, she may be justified in breaking confidentiality to get her the help she needs.

Another argument for breaking confidentiality is to avoid the risk of liability. If the client does harm herself, Marybeth could be sued for malpractice if she knew that the client was suicidal but did not take steps to protect her.

Ethical Resolution Process

The ethical resolution process that Marybeth would take under each method would be as follows:

Method 1: Respecting Confidentiality

Marybeth would discuss the situation with her supervisor or another experienced therapist. She would seek their guidance on how to best support the client while respecting her confidentiality.
Marybeth would continue to see the client on a regular basis and assess her suicide risk at each session. She would also develop a safety plan with the client in case she does have suicidal thoughts in the future.
If Marybeth becomes concerned that the client is in imminent danger of suicide, she would break confidentiality and contact the appropriate authorities.
Method 2: Breaking Confidentiality to Protect the Client

Marybeth would consult with her supervisor or another experienced therapist to get their concurrence that breaking confidentiality is necessary to protect the client.
Marybeth would break confidentiality and contact the appropriate authorities, such as the client’s parents, the police, or a mental health crisis hotline.
Marybeth would continue to see the client on a regular basis and assess her suicide risk at each session. She would also work with the client to develop a safety plan and to connect with appropriate resources.
Conclusion

This is a complex ethical dilemma with no easy answers. Marybeth would need to weigh the competing ethical principles involved and make a decision based on the individual circumstances of the case.