Under what circumstance can a client waive the privilege of confidentiality?

A client may waive the privilege of confidentiality if they bring charges against the licensed person. In such cases, the client essentially puts their own confidential communications at issue by alleging wrongdoing or malpractice. This situation creates a legal and ethical context where the therapist may need to disclose information that would otherwise remain confidential in order to defend against the charges. The waiver is rooted in the principle that a client cannot both claim that their communication was harmful or negligent while maintaining that the same communication should be kept confidential.

The other options present scenarios that do not meet the legal criteria for waiving confidentiality. A therapist's request alone does not justify waiving this privilege, as it relies on mutual consent and the client's autonomy. Dissatisfaction with services or changing counselors does not inherently mean that the client is relinquishing their right to confidentiality; these situations can often be addressed without disclosing private communications. Therefore, the assertion that initiating a legal action against the professional opens the door to waiver is grounded in both legal precedent and ethical considerations within the therapeutic relationship.