What is a primary reason why the Licensed Professional Counselors Act allows for disclosure of client information?

The Licensed Professional Counselors Act permits the disclosure of client information primarily to prevent harm to any person. This provision is rooted in the ethical obligation counselors have to protect the welfare of their clients and the safety of others. In situations where there is a credible threat of harm—whether to the client themselves, a third party, or the community—counselors are mandated to disclose certain information to appropriate authorities or individuals. This duty to warn or protect reflects a balance between maintaining client confidentiality and ensuring the safety of individuals who might be at risk of harm.

This rationale is central to understanding the legal and ethical responsibilities of counselors. Protecting potential victims or intervening in situations where harm could occur is not only an ethical obligation but, in many cases, a legal requirement. This principle underscores the necessity for counselors to navigate the delicate line between confidentiality and the imperative to safeguard life and well-being.