National Certified Addiction Counselor, Level 2 (NCAC II) Practice Exam Exam

When is the concept of privilege typically waived?

1. During group therapy sessions

2. In cases of abuse or harm

3. At the start of therapy

4. When the client requests termination

The correct answer is: In cases of abuse or harm

The concept of privilege is typically waived in cases of abuse or harm because legal and ethical guidelines mandate that certain disclosures must be made when there is a risk of serious harm to the client or others. This duty to report applies particularly in situations where there is evidence or suspicion of abuse, neglect, or self-harm. In these instances, the obligation to protect and ensure the safety of individuals takes precedence over the confidentiality that usually protects communication within the therapeutic relationship. During group therapy sessions, privilege may also be less defined, as information shared within the group is not protected in the same way as individual sessions. The start of therapy does not, in itself, automatically waive privilege; confidentiality typically remains in effect until specific conditions warrant its breach. Moreover, a client's request for termination of therapy does not inherently involve the waiver of privilege unless it relates to instances where mandated reporting is required. Therefore, the context of potential abuse or harm is critical in understanding when privilege is waived.