CAMFT Informed Consent and Disclosure

Question 1

3.1 Informed Decision Making

Answer 1

Marriage and family therapists respect the rights of clients/patients to choose whether to enter into, to remain in, or to leave the therapeutic relationship. When significant decisions need to be made, marriage and family therapists provide adequate information to clients/patients in clear and understandable language so that clients/patients can make meaningful decisions about their therapy.

Question 2

3.2 Therapist Disclosure

Answer 2

When a marriage and family therapist’s personal values, attitudes, and/or beliefs are a prejudicial factor in diagnosing or limiting treatment provided to a client/patient, the marriage and family therapist shall disclose such information to the client/patient or facilitate an appropriate referral in order to ensure continuity of care.

Question 3

3.3. Risks and Benefits

Answer 3

Marriage and family therapists inform clients/patients of the potential risks and benefits of therapy when utilizing novel or experimental techniques or when there is a risk of harm that could result from the utilization of any technique.

Question 4

3.4 Emergencies/Contact Between Sessions

Answer 4

Marriage and family therapists inform clients/patients of the extent of their availability for emergency care between sessions.

Question 5

3.5 Consent for Recording/Observation

Answer 5

Marriage and family therapists obtain written informed consent from clients/patients before recording, or permitting third party observation of treatment.

Question 6

3.6 Limits of Confidentiality

Answer 6

Marriage and family therapists are encouraged to inform clients/patients of significant exceptions to confidentiality such as child abuse reporting, elder and dependent adult abuse reporting, and clients/patients dangerous to themselves or others.

Question 7

3.7 Therapist Professional Background

Answer 7

Marriage and family therapists are encouraged to disclose to clients/patients, at an appropriate time and within the context of the psychotherapeutic relationship, their experience, education, specialties, and theoretical orientation.

Question 8

3.8 Client/Patient Benefit

Answer 8

Marriage and family therapists continually monitor their effectiveness when working with clients/patients and continue therapeutic relationships only so long as it is reasonably clear that clients/patients are benefiting from treatment.