How should confidentiality and its exceptions be handled in a school counseling context?

• A. Maintain confidentiality with students except for exceptions (duty to warn/protect, abuse/neglect reporting, safety concerns, and when required by law); inform students of limits and document.
• B. Keep all information permanently confidential with no exceptions.
• C. Share all information with teachers by default.
• D. Disclose information to the public if requested.

Answer: (D)

Confidentiality in school counseling means protecting what a student shares so they feel safe to talk, while also recognizing specific, clearly defined exceptions to protect safety or meet legal requirements. The best approach is to keep information confidential unless there is a compelling, legitimate reason to disclose. When disclosure is needed—such as in cases of duty to warn or protect, abuse or neglect reporting, safety concerns, or requirements by law—share only what is necessary and with the appropriate people (for example, parents/guardians when appropriate, administrators, or child-protective services). Always inform students upfront about the limits of confidentiality and document what was discussed, what was disclosed, to whom, and why. Information should not be shared with teachers by default or with the public unless a legal or safety exception applies. This balance preserves trust while ensuring safety and compliance.