Multiple Clients
When working with multiple clients, CMHCs respect individual client rights and maintain objectivity.
a. When CMHCs agree to provide counseling services to two or more persons who have a relationship (such as spouses, or parents and children), CMHCs clarify at the outset the nature of the relationship they will have with each involved person.
b. If it becomes apparent that CMHCs are unable to maintain objectivity, resulting in conflicting roles, they must appropriately clarify, adjust, or withdraw from roles.
c. Rules of confidentiality extend to all clients who receive services, not just those identified as primary clients.
d. When working in groups, CMHCs make every effort to screen prospective group counseling participants. Every effort is made to select members whose needs and goals are compatible with goals of the group, who will not impede the group process, and whose well-being will not be jeopardized by the group experience.
e. In the group counseling setting, CMHCs take reasonable precautions to protect clients from physical, emotional, and psychological harm or trauma.
