It might be threatening for a client to hear the word “collaboration” or to hear that a clinician is going to discuss his or her case with a colleague.

Objective: Outline the need for client confidentiality in collaboration.

It might be threatening for a client to hear the word “collaboration” or to hear that a clinician is going to discuss his or her case with a colleague. The client may be very guarded with the information he or she shares and not want it to go beyond the current clinician. Clinicians will discuss confidentiality at the outset of the therapeutic process but should also discuss it throughout the treatment process, particularly if resources outside the clinician’s facility are used.

A client is concerned with you collaborating with an outside service provider. How would you minimize the client’s concern in regard to collaboration and confidential information shared?

• In your initial discussion post, be sure to also address the following:
• • Client consent to share client information.
  • Discuss the kind of information that should not be disclosed without client authorization (exceptions to confidentiality).
  • The value of collaboration with other professionals in meeting the needs of the client.