Question

Elena is a therapist assessing the needs of a family whose case she was just assigned. In interviewing the teenager, Vlad, she learns that Vlad is having sucidal thoughts. According to professional ethical guidelines, what is the BEST course of action for Elena to take?

A.
Elena must break confidentiality and inform Vlad’s parents and/or other authorities to ensure Vlad’s safety.

B.
Elena should try to talk Vlad out of his sucidal thoughts, and keep the conversation confidential.

C.
Elena should prescribe Vlad anti-depressants, and keep the conversation confidential.

D.
Elena must break confidentiality and tell Vlad’s high school teachers so they can watch him closely at school.

Answer 1

Answer: A. Elena must break confidentiality and inform Vlad’s parents and/or other authorities to ensure Vlad’s safety.

Explanation: In my program we are told to breach confidentiality when it involves a suícidal minor.