Assignment Prompt & Instructions
apa style
300 words
peer review
**files (1)**
– ## Topic6DQ1ResptoKatherineCutrightInstructions.docx
**## Topic6DQ1ResptoKatherineCutrightInstructions.docx**
Katherine Cutright
Good morning,
In this scenario, my primary responsibility is to protect Doug’s confidentiality while also appropriately interfacing with the legal system. Because Doug is in a publicly funded substance use program, his records are protected not only by HIPAA but also by the stricter federal regulation 42 CFR Part 2, which prohibits disclosure of substance use treatment information without proper written consent or a qualifying court order.
The ACA Code of Ethics clearly states: “Counselors protect the confidential information of prospective and current clients. Counselors disclose information only with appropriate consent or with sound legal or ethical justification” (American Counseling Association [ACA], 2014, Standard B.1.c). Therefore, I would not immediately release information to the probation officer. My first step would be to review whether Doug has signed a valid Release of Information (ROI) that specifically authorizes communication with the probation officer. If not, I would discuss the request with Doug, explain the potential benefits and risks, and obtain written, time-limited consent if he agrees.
If Doug were voluntarily attending treatment, my approach would be even more protective, as there would be less legal leverage tied to court involvement. Regardless, any disclosure would be minimal, factual, and clinically appropriate. Consultation, documentation, and adherence to 42 CFR Part 2 would guide ethical decision-making while supporting Doug’s welfare and legal interests.
References
American Counseling Association. (2014).ACA code of ethics.
[https://www.counseling.org/resources/ethics](https://www.counseling.org/resources/ethics?utm_source=chatgpt.com)
Corey, G., Corey, M. S., & Callanan, P. (2019).Issues and ethics in the helping professions(10th ed.). Cengage Learning.
**## Topic6DQ1ResptoKatherineCutrightInstructions.docx**
Katherine Cutright
Good morning,
In this scenario, my primary responsibility is to protect Doug’s confidentiality while also appropriately interfacing with the legal system. Because Doug is in a publicly funded substance use program, his records are protected not only by HIPAA but also by the stricter federal regulation 42 CFR Part 2, which prohibits disclosure of substance use treatment information without proper written consent or a qualifying court order.
The ACA Code of Ethics clearly states: “Counselors protect the confidential information of prospective and current clients. Counselors disclose information only with appropriate consent or with sound legal or ethical justification” (American Counseling Association [ACA], 2014, Standard B.1.c). Therefore, I would not immediately release information to the probation officer. My first step would be to review whether Doug has signed a valid Release of Information (ROI) that specifically authorizes communication with the probation officer. If not, I would discuss the request with Doug, explain the potential benefits and risks, and obtain written, time-limited consent if he agrees.
If Doug were voluntarily attending treatment, my approach would be even more protective, as there would be less legal leverage tied to court involvement. Regardless, any disclosure would be minimal, factual, and clinically appropriate. Consultation, documentation, and adherence to 42 CFR Part 2 would guide ethical decision-making while supporting Doug’s welfare and legal interests.
References
American Counseling Association. (2014).ACA code of ethics.
[https://www.counseling.org/resources/ethics](https://www.counseling.org/resources/ethics?utm_source=chatgpt.com)
Corey, G., Corey, M. S., & Callanan, P. (2019).Issues and ethics in the helping professions(10th ed.). Cengage Learning.