If a friend asks about a former client, how should you respond?

When someone inquires about a former client, the ethical obligation of the case manager is to maintain confidentiality. This principle is a cornerstone of professional practice in behavioral health and related fields. Sharing any information about a client, regardless of how general it may seem, violates the trust established in the therapeutic relationship and can lead to breaches of confidentiality.

By informing your friend that sharing client information is unethical, you are not only protecting the privacy of the individual but also upholding the standards of your profession. This approach demonstrates the importance of confidentiality and respect for client rights, which is essential in fostering a safe and secure environment for all clients.

Discussing a client’s case in general terms or sharing personal thoughts about the individual could still lead to the potential identification of the client and compromise their confidentiality, while sharing general information about the client would directly breach ethical guidelines. Therefore, maintaining a strict boundary around client confidentiality is not only the correct response but also a crucial aspect of ethical case management practice.