law and ethics mock 3

Question 1

A therapist is treating an incarcerated client in the prison system. The client is in prison for drug charges. The client shares that they used to shoplift food in order to have enough to eat. How should the therapist handle the disclosure?

A. remind the client of the limits of confidentiality
B. inform the client that the information will be shared with the parole board
C. report the information to the parole board
D. maintain confidentiality

Answer 1

D. maintain confidentiality

Question 2

A therapist in private practice has been treating a family for 4 months when the father is unexpectedly laid off from his job. The parents come to the therapist explaining that they can no longer afford to pay the full fee for sessions; the therapist believes the family is in need of further treatment, especially now. What should the therapist do?

A. provide free services to the family
B. provide the parents with job postings and interview techinques
C. refer the family to a low-fee community counseling center
D. provide a sliding scale based fee for the family

Answer 2

D. provide a sliding scale based fee for the family

Question 3

A 55-yr-old male client is talking with his therapist about past trauma. he reports that he recently noticed he is feeling more tired and having a hard time with memory. How should the therapist proceed?

A. refer to psychiatrist
B. refer to doctor
C. refer for psychological exam
D. continue with therapy

Answer 3

B. refer to doctor

Question 4

A therapist is treating a mother, stepfather, 12-yr-old son and 4-yr-old daughter for family therapy. The mother requests that the therapist speak to the son’s teacher because he has been complaining of problems in the classroom. When obtaining a release to speak to the teacher, whom should the therapist have sign the release?

A. the son
B. the mother
C. the entire family
D. the mother, the stepfather, and the son

Answer 4

D. the mother, the stepfather, and the son

Question 5

A client signs a release of information authorizing her therapist to speak to her psychiatrist about her medication history. During the call, the psychiatrist asks for details about the client’s treatment and childhood history. The therapist should:

A. provide the information
B. limit discussion to scope of release
C. ask the psychiatrist if there are things in the client’s history that are concerning
D. determine if sharing information would benefit client

Answer 5

B. limit discussion to scope of release

Question 6

A therapist in private practice receives a client referral from another therapist. The referring therapist calls to find out how the first session went with the client. The therapist should FIRST:

A. thank the therapist for the referral
B. inform the therapist that no information can be shared without a release
C. ask the therapist how she knows the client
D. obtain a release from the client to speak with the therapist

Answer 6

B. inform the therapist that no information can be shared without a release

Question 7

A school counselor refers a 10-yr-boy for therapy due to his aggressive behavior towards other students in his class. The mother states that her son is respectful in the home, plays well with his neighbors and his two younger siblings. After obtaining a psychological history from the mother, the therapist should next:

A. obtain a release from son to talk with school counselor
B. refer the son for psychological testing
C. obtain further information about the son’s behavior from the father
D. obtain a release from mother to talk with the school counselor

Answer 7

D. obtain a release from mother to talk with the school counselor

Question 8

After treating a client for 3 months, the therapist learns that they are both members of the same health club. The client asks when the therapist works out and suggests they should meet up sometime. The therapist should:

A. accept the invitation after discussing the importance of boundaries
B. determine whether it is in the client’s best interest to meet
C. decline the invitation
D. agree to meet him once he terminates treatment

Answer 8

C. decline the invitation

Question 9

While assessing a 71-yr-old man, the therapist learns that he has not left his house in over a month. He is thin and says he lives off top ramen and chicken soup. His phone has been disconnected for the past week because he forgot to pay the bill. His children live out of state and he doesn’t like to worry them. He can’t remember the last time he went to the doctor, but he has a card from the office. His apartment is full of garbage. What initial resources is most appropriate in this case:

A. psychiatric evaluation team
B. meals on wheels
C. take him immediately to his doctor
D. adult protective services

Answer 9

D. adult protective services

Question 10

According to HIPAA, all of the following are true regarding psychotherapy notes EXCEPT:

A. psychotherapy notes should be separate from medical record
B. psychotherapy notes document the contents of the session
C. psychotherapy notes are released to third-party payers for billing
D. psychotherapy notes are generally not accessed by the client

Answer 10

C. psychotherapy notes are released to third-party payers for billing

Question 11

A therapist runs into a former client at the mall a year after their treatment ended. The client asks the therapist out to dinner and a movie and the therapist accepts. The therapist’s actions are:

A. acceptable because the former client initiated the relationship
B. acceptable because the therapy was terminated at least 1 year ago
C. unethical but legal
D. unethical and illegal

Answer 11

C. unethical but legal

Question 12

A new client discloses that she had sexual relations with her previous therapist. After providing the client with the brochure “Professional Therapy Never Includes Sex”, the therapist should:

A. encourage the client to file a report with the BBS
B. file a report with the BBS
C. call and confront the therapist
D. inform colleagues of therapist’s actions

Answer 12

A. encourage the client to file a report with the BBS

Question 13

A therapist responds to a flyer advertising housekeeping service and realizes during the discussion that the person is a former client. The former client recognizes the therapist and offers her services at half price, adding that she really needs work. The therapist’s BEST response is to:

A. explain to former client that once they have been a client, they will always be seen as a client by this therapist
B. politely decline services
C. hire client’s housekeeping services, but explain the need to pay regular price
D. discuss the boundary issues with the former client

Answer 13

B. politely decline services

Question 14

In which of the following situations should involuntary hospitalizations be considered?

A. a person indicates a plan and intent to cause self-harm
B. a person demonstrates failure to provide shelter
C. a person refuses medical treatment
D. a person states intent to kill his boss

Answer 14

A. a person indicates a plan and intent to cause self-harm

Question 15

A client, who is an electrician, recently terminated with his therapist. In the final session, he expressed financial difficulties due to lack of work. The therapist needs electrical work done in his home and considers offering the job to the client. The therapist should:

A. offer the job to the client if it is clear the client will no longer need counseling
B. not offer the job to the client in order to avoid a dual relationship
C. seek consultation with colleagues
D. offer the job since the therapeutic relationship has ended

Answer 15

B. not offer the job to the client in order to avoid a dual relationship

Question 16

A 19-yr-old woman is referred by her medical doctor for therapy for anxiety. During the session, the client reports that she was sexually molested by her gymnastics coach when she was in junior high school. She states that she loved him and doesn’t want him to get in any trouble. Based on this disclosure, the therapist LEGALLY should:

A. maintain confidentiality
B. file a child abuse report because the coach could be doing it to others
C. explore why the client wants to protect the coach
D. encourage client to file the report

Answer 16

A. maintain confidentiality

Question 17

A therapist begins treatment wit ha 17-yr-old girl who is newly pregnant and trying to decide what to do about the pregnancy. AFter several sessions, the therapist realizes that her own value system may be interfering with the client’s treatment. What should the therapist do NEXT?

A. consult with a supervisor or colleague to try and resolve the dilemma
B. refer the client to another therapist
C. provide the client with a referral to a family planning agency
D. acknowledge mixed feelings within oneself and discuss them with the client

Answer 17

A. consult with a supervisor or colleague to try and resolve the dilemma

Question 18

A therapist finds herself overwhelmed by disturbing images of her sister’s death each time a particular client begins to describe her own bereavement. How should the therapist manage the situation?

A. by discontinuing treatment because the therapeutic neutrality has been compromised
B. by focusing the therapy on the therapist’s own experiences with death
C. by encouraging the client to discuss less emotionally reactive material
D. by seeking professional help to address unresolved issues

Answer 18

D. by seeking professional help to address unresolved issues

Question 19

An agency therapist is experiencing difficulty concentrating and completing work-related tasks after the recent death of a parent. A colleague reports to the therapist that patients are complaining about the therapist’s lack of attention and follow-through. The therapist should:

A. take personal leave immediately
B. ask the colleague to address the issue with patients
C. appropriately disclose the loss to patients
D. seek consultation immediately

Answer 19

D. seek consultation immediately

Question 20

A 65-yr-old man comes to counseling for symptoms of depression and anxiety. The client reveals that his 40-yr-old son has been living with him and demanding money from the client to buy drugs. Once, when he was high, he hit the client. The son has also threatened the client stating, “if you tell anyone, you will be sorry”. What LEGAL responsibility does the therapist have in this case?

A. immediately report elder abuse to adult protective services agency
B. discuss with the client the therapist’s responsibility to report the fiduciary abuse
C. develop a safety plan with the client since he could be in imminent danger
D. call the police and warn them of the son’s threat

Answer 20

A. immediately report elder abuse to adult protective services agency

Question 21

A therapist who was a victim of sexual abuse as a child meets with an 18-yr-old client who also experienced childhood sexual abuse from a teacher. The therapist is concerned about working effectively with this client due to her lack of experience in treating sexual abuse. The therapist should FIRST:

A. seek consultation
B. refer the client to someone who specializes in sexual abuse
C. contact child protective services
D. monitor any countertransference during session

Answer 21

B. refer the client to someone who specializes in sexual abuse

Question 22

A therapist has been meeting with a client for over a year. During the most recent session, the client asks the therapist to come to her daughter’s dance recital. The therapist declines and the client is visibly upset. The therapist should:

A. consult with a colleague or supervisor
B. agree to attend the recital
C. clarify professional boundaries
D. make an interpretation about the client’s response

Answer 22

C. clarify professional boundaries

Question 23

A Mandarin-speaking client meets with a therapist at a mental health clinic after witnessing a shooting in the community. The client and his brother, who accompanies him, have limited proficiency in English. The therapist does not speak Mandarin, but knows a receptionist who is a native speaker. The therapist’s MOST appropriate action is to:

A. approach the receptionist and ask her to translate
B. attempt to conduct the interview without assistance
C. refer the client to a different therapist
D. obtain a professional translator before proceeding

Answer 23

D. obtain a professional translator before proceeding

Question 24

A therapist has been meeting with a client for 6 months with the goal of treating the client’s social anxiety. The goals set forth at the beginning of therapy have been met. When the therapist brings up termination, the client reports he’s afraid to terminate therapy and would like to continue for several more months. How should the therapist respond to the client’s request?

A. remind the client that once the goals have been met, therapy is no longer indicated
B. normalize client’s feelings and continue with termination
C. explore if there are other goals the client would like to work on in order to continue therapy
D. explore the client’s fears regarding termination

Answer 24

D. explore the client’s fears regarding termination

Question 25

A 30-yr-old client diagnosed with depression and post-traumatic stress disorder has been meeting with a therapist in a private practice. Despite weekly meetings for over 3 months, there have been no changes in the client’s symptoms. The therapist will BEST serve the client by:

A. supporting the client’s self-determination and allow treatment to continue
B. consulting with an experienced colleague about the case
C. consulting professional literature for treatment indications and outcomes
D. bring up termination at the next session

Answer 25

B. consulting with an experienced colleague about the case

Question 26

A therapist is treating a 24-yr-old gay male whose partner is physically and emotionally abusive. The therapist has reviewed a safety plan with this client and explored his options. The client is adamant that his partner won’t do it again and wants to keep trying at the relationship. The therapist has serious doubts about the client’s safety and thinks the client should end the relationship. The therapist should:

A. encourage the client to consider dating other people
B. express concerns the therapist has about the client’s safety
C. provide the client with a referral to a domestic violence shelter
D. acknowledge the client’s hope that the partner will change

Answer 26

D. acknowledge the client’s hope that the partner will change

Question 27

A mother seeks therapy for her 11-yr-old son after a physical altercation with another boy at school. The mother reports that she and the boy’s father recently got divorced and the father moved to another state. She assures the therapist that she has sole legal custody of her son. In order to proceed with therapy, the therapist should:

A. obtain consent to treat the minor from the mother
B. obtain consent to treat the minor from both parents
C. obtain a copy of the custody agreement
D. obtain consent to treat from the client

Answer 27

C. obtain a copy of the custody agreement

Question 28

A therapist in private practice who specializes in adults with anxiety and depression chooses not to complete a treatment plan for his clients. This behavior is:

A. unethical
B. illegal
C. below the standard of care
D. acceptable if it aligns with his orientation

Answer 28

C. below the standard of care

Question 29

A new client seeks treatment for alcohol addiction and depression from a therapist in private practice who specializes in relationship issues. The therapist agrees to see the client despite having limited training in substance use treatment. The behavior of the therapist is:

A. illegal because the therapist working outside his scope of practice
B. illegal because the therapist is working outside his scope of competence
C. unethical because the therapist is working outside his scope of practice
D. unethical because the therapist is working outside his scope of competence

Answer 29

D. unethical because the therapist is working outside his scope of competence

Question 30

A client, who is a single mother, informs the therapist that she was offered a better job in another state where she does not know anyone. She requests assistance finding childcare for her 5-yr-old. She adds that she thinks that it would be easier for her to remain in her present living arrangement with her parents until the child is older. The therapist thinks the client should stay. The therapist should:

A. help the client find appropriate child care
B. suggest a family session with client’s parents and child where everyone can have a chance to state their opinion
C. explore the pros and cons of her options
D. express concerns and ask the client not to take action for a period of time

Answer 30

C. explore the pros and cons of her options

Question 31

A new client tells his therapist that she has found integrating massage with therapy has been effective in the past and asks if the therapist offers this option. The therapist used to work as a licensed masseuse. The therapist should:

A. refer out to massage therapist
B. incorporate massage into therapy
C. explain the limits of scope of practice
D. discuss pros and cons of massage therapy

Answer 31

C. explain the limits of scope of practice

Question 32

A married couple seeks therapy to address difficulties following disclosure of the husband’s recent infidelity. During the first session, both the husband and wife expressed a desire to make the relationship work. The wife, however, notes that it might take many sessions before she can begin to trust the husband again and asks the therapist to ensure she will work with them until they rebuild trust. In addressing expectations of therapy, therapy should FIRST:

A. assure the wife they will receive continued support as they work to rebuild trust
B. express encouragement that the couple has agreed to seek therapy to fix their issues
C. discuss the risks and benefits associated with therapy
D. validate the wife’s feelings of distrust toward the husband

Answer 32

C. discuss the risks and benefits associated with therapy

Question 33

A therapist is looking fora therapy group for an adult client who is HIV positive. The therapist calls an agency that offers treatment group for HIP positive individuals. The representative of the organization providing the groups treatment services requests information about the sexual orienation of the client, stating that the information will assure a better fit between client’s needs and services provided. In this situation, the therapist should proceed by FIRST:

A. informing the person requesting the information that sexual orientation should not matter
B. releasing information since it will be held in confidence between service providers
C. requesting the information regarding the different types of groups and discussing the choices with the client
D. information the person requesting the information that the client must be consulted before that information can be released

Answer 33

D. information the person requesting the information that the client must be consulted before that information can be released

Question 34

A lawyer asks a therapist to evaluate one of his clients to see if he is competent to stand trial. What should the therapist do?

A. determine how many assessments would need to be completed before agreeing to evaluate
B. decline due to respect being outside of scope of practice
C. consult with psychologist to determine what psych batteries need to be used
D. assess client and report to court

Answer 34

B. decline due to respect being outside of scope of practice

Question 35

A client who had previously over come cancer has been readmitted to the hospital. The cancer has returned and spread. The client tells the therapist that she is at peace with the news and doesn’t want to suffer through all the treatments again. The therapist is upset and is concerned that the client isn’t thinking clearly. The therapist should FIRST:

A. schedule a meeting with the patient and extended family
B. acknowledge the client’s right to self-determination
C. determine who has legal power of attorney for her health decisions
D. obtain a release and speak with client’s oncologist

Answer 35

B. acknowledge the client’s right to self-determination

Question 36

A therapist who has been in private practice for several years has decided to expand her practice and also offer relationship coaching. When providing services as a relationship coach, what is the most important issue to consider?

A. the client understands the individual offers both coaching and therapy
B. the client has received informed consent that states the type of service being rendered
C. the client understands the difference between coaching and therapy
D. the client is not simultaneously receiving therapy and coaching

Answer 36

B. the client has received informed consent that states the type of service being rendered

Question 37

A therapist is meeting with a client for the first session. The client has 8 sessions covered through insurance. he tells the therapist that money is tight and he wants to wait until insurance runs out to discuss fees. What should the therapist do?

A. refer him to a low-fee clinic
B. provide sliding scale
C. give him fee schedule so he can make a choice about treatment
D. wait to discuss

Answer 37

C. give him fee schedule so he can make a choice about treatment

Question 38

A therapist accepts insurance in private practice. The insurance company sends notice to the therapist requesting copies of five client files for an audit. This is a typical practice of the insurance company. What legal obligation does the therapist have in this situation?

A. make sure each file has an authorization and submit the files
B. inform the panel that this violates confidentiality
C. request written authorization for each file and inform clients about information released
D. provide copies of the requested files

Answer 38

A. make sure each file has an authorization and submit the files

Question 39

A woman seeks therapy for relationship issues with her husband and her children. Before the therapist can obtain informed consent, the client begins crying and says that she is a horrible wife and mother. Under what circumstances would the therapist be legally permitted to allow therapy to proceed without obtaining informed consent?

A. the client is also a therapist
B. the client knows the therapist from a parenting group
C. the client reports that she has been in therapy before and understands how it works
D. the client is in crisis

Answer 39

D. the client is in crisis

Question 40

A mother of an 11-yr-old was arrested and subsequently ordered to enter a 90-day detox facility for drug and alcohol abuse. The son was sent to live with a foster family temporarily when the mother went into a detox facility. The child as been court-ordered to attend therapy. From whom should the therapist obtain consent for his treatment?

A. mother
B. judge
C. social worker assigned to case
D. foster parents

Answer 40

C. social worker assigned to case

Question 41

A therapist has been seeing a gay couple for several months for relationship issues. Between sessions, one of the men calls distraught because he learned he has HIV. “I don’t know what to do! Please don’t tell my partner.” The therapist should:

A. encourage him to tell his partner
B. inform him, that due to Tarasoff, the therapist must inform his partner
C. assure him that you will maintain his confidentiality and explore his reasons for not wanting his partner to know
D. remind him of the “no secrets” policy

Answer 41

C. assure him that you will maintain his confidentiality and explore his reasons for not wanting his partner to know

Question 42

A 21-yr-old male with a substance use disorder drops out of the treatment after acknowledging that he has relapsed. The client’s mother contacts the therapist and begs the therapist to contact her son and try to convince him to come back to treatment. The therapist does not have a consent form to release information. What is the therapist’s MOST appropriate response?

A. provide no information to the mother
B. state that the client has the right to refuse treatment since he is an adult
C. encourage the mother to address her concerns with her son
D. state that the therapist is worried about her son as well

Answer 42

A. provide no information to the mother

Question 43

A 15-yr-old client is brought to therapy by his mother. During the fourth session, the client shares that he frequently skips school to smoke pot with his friends. The client then looks concerned and asks whether the therapist is going to tell his mother. How should the therapist respond?

A. discuss the risks of smoking pot and encourage him to tell his mom
B. inform him that his mother has a right to know about his risky behavior and process his reaction
C. explore his concern and remind him of the limits of confidentiality
D. assure him that everything they discuss is confidential

Answer 43

C. explore his concern and remind him of the limits of confidentiality

Question 44

In which of the following scenarios is someone other than the client the holder of privilege?

A. the client is a minor
B. the client is mentally disabled
C. the client has a guardian ad litem
D. the client is a minor and has been the victim of crime

Answer 44

C. the client has a guardian ad litem

Question 45

Which of the following is a legally required aspect of informed consent?

A. fees
B. therapist background
C. billing practices
D. risks and benefits of therapy

Answer 45

A. fees

Question 46

A therapist is part of an interdisciplinary team at a residential center for teens. The therapist should make it clear to the residents that confidential disclosures are:

A. always kept confidential unless they involve another resident
B. maintained between the resident and the therapist
C. shared with the team as determined by the therapist and client
D. shared with the treatment team

Answer 46

D. shared with the treatment team

Question 47

A former client is arrested for stealing clothes from a department store. The prosecuting attorney subpoenas the records. The client asks the therapist to assert privilege. In which of the following instances would the therapist most likely be required to comply with the subpoena?

A. in the client’s defense is that she has the diagnosis of kleptomania
B. the client’s attorney requested the records
C. the client’s attorney has advised releasing the records
D. the judge has quashed the subpoena

Answer 47

A. in the client’s defense is that she has the diagnosis of kleptomania

Question 48

A client seeks therapy for anxiety after a car accident. She also decides to sue the driver of the other car who was at fault claiming that the accident has left her too anxious to drive. The therapist receives a subpoena for the client’s records. The therapist should:

A. not accept the subpoena unless directed to do so by the client or the court
B. accept the subpoena and give up the records since this situation represents an exception to privilege
C. accept the subpoena and advise the client that the records will have to be surrendered because she has entered her emotional condition into a legal proceeding
D. accept the subpoena, maintain confidentiality, assert privilege if the client so directs

Answer 48

D. accept the subpoena, maintain confidentiality, assert privilege if the client so directs

Question 49

A 23-yr-old is in therapy for depression following the breakup of a long-term relationship. The client’s mother, who is paying for the sessions, contacts the therapist and requests information about what is happening in the client’s sessions. The therapist’s INITIAL response to this request should be to:

A. explain to the mother that under no circumstances may you disclose any information
B. give the mother general information about the client’s progress
C. clarify with the mother the nature of confidentiality within the therapeutic relationship
D. explore client’s feelings regarding mother’s request

Answer 49

C. clarify with the mother the nature of confidentiality within the therapeutic relationship

Question 50

A mother sends her 15-yr-old son to therapy because he has been experiencing insomnia and is exhibiting signs of anxiety. She states, “we used to be so close, no he won’t share anything with me.” During the second session with the son, he tells the therapist he is being financially exploited by a teacher’s assistant at school and it is causing him severe anxiety. he does not want his mother to know. How should the therapist proceed?

A. contact school board anonymously
B. contact mother and process it with client
C. contact CPS and document what client said it notes
D. maintain confidentiality

Answer 50

C. contact CPS and document what client said it notes

Question 51

A therapist has attempted to recover unpaid fees from a client without success. The therapist has decided to take the client to small claims court. What information should the therapist share with the judge?

A. number of sessions, amount her session, balance owed
B. number of sessions, balanced owed, type of services provided
C. past attempts to collect payment, proof of verbal/written agreement with client for payment of services rendered, balance owed
D. past attempts to collect payment, type of services provided to client, balance owed

Answer 51

C. past attempts to collect payment, proof of verbal/written agreement with client for payment of services rendered, balance owed

Question 52

A therapist is renting an office from a therapist colleague. The therapist refers a client to the colleague and the client starts to see him for therapy. The colleague wants to lower the rent in appreciation. The therapist should:

A. accept the reduced rent
B. determine the fair amount for the reduction
C. inform the colleague that it would be illegal and unethical
D. inform the colleague that it would be unethical

Answer 52

C. inform the colleague that it would be illegal and unethical

Question 53

A therapist receives a phone message from a client’s psychiatrist who has been providing medication monitoring for the client’s depression. The psychiatrist informs the therapist that the client give him permission to contact you and he would like to discuss concerns about the client’s diagnosis and treatment. What should the therapist do first?

A. call the psychiatrist to inform him that you will request the client to sign a release in the next session
B. call the psychiatrist and request a faxed copy of his release before acknowledging you see the client
C. call the client to request permission to speak with the psychiatrist
D. call the psychiatrist to discuss concerns regarding the client’s case since he has signed release

Answer 53

B. call the psychiatrist and request a faxed copy of his release before acknowledging you see the client

Question 54

A therapist meets with her 82-yr-old client. During the session, the client discusses increasing stress around caregiving responsibilities for her husband, who has progressive dementia. She guiltily admits that she gives him extra medication to keep him in the bed because “he’s gotten out a few times and wandered away”. What should the therapist do NEXT?

A. empathize with the client’s feelings of distress
B. discuss the necessity of an adult protective services report
C. refer the client to support group
D. help problem-solve around the husband’s safety

Answer 54

B. discuss the necessity of an adult protective services report

Question 55

A 66-yr-old man is referred to a therapist by his adult daughter. During the initial assessment, the man reports poor sleep and increased feelings of hopelessness after being laid off from his job. He goes on to tell the therapist that “things just seem to keep doing downhill sine my wife died a year ago”. What should the therapist do FIRST?

A. refer the client to an employment agency
B. determine if client has plan and means for self harm
C. assess the client for suicidal ideation
D. refer the client to a support group for widows/widowers

Answer 55

C. assess the client for suicidal ideation

Question 56

A 13-yr-old girl has consented to her own treatment after it was discovered that her parents are emotionally abusive and were initially opposed to her receiving therapy. The therapist would like to speak with the girl’s teachers to discuss her current academic functioning. How should the therapist proceed?

A. request a written release from the parents
B. request a written release from the girl and her parents
C. request a written release from the girl
D. request verbal consent from the girl

Answer 56

C. request a written release from the girl

Question 57

A therapist is treating a client who is court-ordered to therapy as a condition of his probation. A month into treatment, the probation officer contacts the therapist to find out about the client’s compliance with therapy. Which of the following is true:

A. the therapist can share attendance history without a release from the client
B. the therapist must obtain a written release before speaking with the probation officer
C. the therapist does not need a written release because the treatment is court-ordered
D. the client has a right to determine what is shared with the probation officer

Answer 57

A. the therapist can share attendance history without a release from the client

Question 58

A 23-yr-old client tells her new therapist that she had a romantic love affair with her previous therapist. The therapist ended the relationship because he said it was unethical. The client is confused and upset. The therapist should:

A. provide her with the BBS brochure and encourage her to file a complaint with the BBS
B. provide her with the BBS brochure and speak directly to the previous therapist about such unethical behavior
C. inquire about the details of the affair and file a report with the BBS
D. explain to the client that his behavior is legal but unethical

Answer 58

A. provide her with the BBS brochure and encourage her to file a complaint with the BBS

Question 59

During an initial session, a client tells the therapist that she is currently seeing another therapist. She expresses angry feelings toward the other therapist and would like to get another perspective on her problems. What action should the therapist take?

A. contract a set number of sessions with the client before sending her back to her current therapist
B. inform the client that she needs to terminate her ongoing therapy before the therapist can provide treatment
C. see the client until she makes up her mind on which therapist she wants to have for therapy
D. request a release to discuss the client’s case with the other therapist

Answer 59

B. inform the client that she needs to terminate her ongoing therapy before the therapist can provide treatment

Question 60

A former client who owns a travel agency offers a therapist a free trip for successful treatment and assistance in negotiations with his insurance company. How should the therapist respond to the client’s offer?

A. refuse the trip as a conflict of interest
B. refuse the trip as an illegal barter for services
C. accept the trip as an expression of gratitude
D. accept the trip as a payment for losses from the insurance

Answer 60

A. refuse the trip as a conflict of interest

Question 61

An agency has a policy that therapists cannot accept gifts of high monetary value. A Thai client that has been in therapy for 8 months with a therapist gives the therapist a small crocheted blanket, the therapist should:

A. accept the gift graciously
B. inquire about the value of the gift
C. accept the gift on behalf of the agency
D. inform client that she can’t accept gift

Answer 61

A. accept the gift graciously

Question 62

A therapist receives a wedding invitation from a couple that terminated services more than 3 years ago. The therapist decides that an appropriate amount of time has passed, so he decides to attend their wedding. Following the wedding, the therapist continues to socialize with the couple. After she and her husband have a fight, the woman calls the therapist and requests they return for couple’s therapy. How should the therapist respond to the request?

A. agree to meet with the couple, but explain that the personal friendship would have to end
B. review the nature of dual relationships and let her decide which she would rather have: you as a therapist or you as a friend
C. refuse to meet wit the couple
D. review the nature of dual relationships and provide the couple with referrals to other therapists

Answer 62

D. review the nature of dual relationships and provide the couple with referrals to other therapists

Question 63

A 43-yr-old man with depression and anxiety is referred to therapy by his doctor. The client says that his wife is extremely jealous and occasionally physically attacks him when she gets really angry. He states that he loves her and doesn’t want to end the marriage because they have a child but he’s tired of living in fear. The therapist should FIRST:

A. develop a safety plan with the client
B. file a child abuse report
C. discuss the options of couples therapy
D. assess for child abuse

Answer 63

D. assess for child abuse

Question 64

A 15-yr-old boy has been meeting with a therapist for two months. At the end of a session, the client’s mother picks him up and asks the therapist if she can see her and her husband for couple’s therapy as well. The therapist is concerned about the impact on the treatment relationship with the son. What should the therapist do?

A. seek consultation
B. continue to see the adolescent and also provide couples therapy for the parents
C. discuss concerns with client and allow him to decide
D. provide the mother a list of therapists who can treat her and her husband

Answer 64

D. provide the mother a list of therapists who can treat her and her husband

Question 65

A therapist has started to see a client who sought out therapy due to conflicted feelings regarding a current romantic partner. The therapist realizes after a few sessions that the client’s partner is a close personal friend of the therapist. The therapist should:

A. disclose the friendship to the client and provide the client with appropriate referrals
B. continue to see the client without disclosing the friendship with the client’s partner
C. address the conflict with both the client and client’s partner
D. address the therapist’s relationship to the client’s partner and give the client the option to continue treatment with the therapist

Answer 65

A. disclose the friendship to the client and provide the client with appropriate referrals

Question 66

Which of the following situations would constitute an ethical dual relationship?

A. a therapist treats the son of a good friend
B. a current client and therapist attend the same aerobic class at their gym
C. a therapist meets with a client for tea between sessions
D. a therapist hires a client following client initiated termination

Answer 66

B. a current client and therapist attend the same aerobic class at their gym

Question 67

A client diagnosed with an aggressive and painful cancer discloses his wish to end his life because of his terminal illness. How should a therapist with strong beliefs and opinions on this issue manage ethical responsibilities towards this client?

A. refer the client to a therapist who has expertise working with terminal illness
B. encourage the client to discover a new commitment to living with illness
C. discuss the different moral values between the therapist and the client
D. seek consultation to provide treatment within the client’s value system

Answer 67

D. seek consultation to provide treatment within the client’s value system

Question 68

A 16-yr-old is referred to a community agency for support. The client just learned she is pregnant and is confused, upset and doesn’t think she wants to have the baby. The therapist has strong views against abortion and doesn’t think the client should have an abortion. The therapist’s MOST appropriate action is to:

A. seek consultation to discuss the matter
B. refer the client to prenatal services
C. encourage her to bring in father of baby to discuss the matter
D. explore client’s feelings about abortion

Answer 68

A. seek consultation to discuss the matter

Question 69

A therapist at a community agency is treating a Latino adolescent client with a history of child abuse. Over the course of therapy, the therapist becomes aware that the client has racist beliefs that clash with the therapist’s value system. The therapist should:

A. explore origin of client’s racists beliefs and determine whether the client has been a victim of racism
B. educate the client about the negative effects of racism
C. seek consultation
D. respect the client’s beliefs and focus on the presenting problem

Answer 69

D. respect the client’s beliefs and focus on the presenting problem

Question 70

In session with a therapist, a client has established the goals of decreasing symptoms of anxiety and increasing social activities. Each week, the client mentions concurrent involvement with homeopathic treatment, from which the client reports additional benefit. The therapist’s PRIMARY responsibility in this situation is to:

A. determine if the type of homeopathic treatment the client uses is efficacious
B. explain the need for client to terminate with practitioner to avoid duplicate services
C. ask the client for permission to contact the homeopathic practitioner to gather information
D. continue working with the client toward the treatment goals

Answer 70

D. continue working with the client toward the treatment goals

Question 71

A newly married couple seeks therapy for relationship issues. The husband is Caucasian and the wife is Japanese. The husband complains that the wife is “unemotional” and dos not want to tell him how she is feeling. The wife shakes her head and states, “I don’t understand what he wants from me”. How should the therapist incorporate human diversity issues in the treatment plan?

A. explain to the husband that in Japanese culture, one does not express emotions
B. explain to the wife that the husband wants her to be more expressive
C. discuss how their families of origin express emotion
D. explore how their cultural backgrounds are influencing their relational issues

Answer 71

D. explore how their cultural backgrounds are influencing their relational issues

Question 72

A therapist at a community mental health center overhears another therapist agreeing to meet a former client that night to go to dinner and a movie. The therapist in this situation should FIRST:

A. meet with the clinical supervisor to discuss the co-worker’s behavior
B. review the client’s chart to determine when therapy was terminated
C. confront the co-worker about the behavior with the client
D. request a meeting with the supervisor and the co-worker to address the issue

Answer 72

C. confront the co-worker about the behavior with the client

Question 73

A therapist at an agency confronts a fellow therapist after witnessing the colleague giving a client money and asking the client to purchase a magazine for the colleague at the nearby drug store. The colleague replies that the client goes to the store daily and the client does not lose any money so there is no problem with the situation. The therapist should:

A. talk to the client directly about the situation
B. do nothing more since the issue was addressed
C. report this to the supervisor for more attention
D. file a complaint with the licensing board

Answer 73

C. report this to the supervisor for more attention

Question 74

A newly hired therapist discloses to a colleague that she misrepresented her experience during her interview and she feels overwhelmed by the clients’ issues she is expected to treat. When the colleague suggests that she discuss the issue with her supervisor, the therapist says she doesn’t want to lose her job. The colleague should:

A. report her to her supervisor
B. inform her that she doesn’t inform the supervisor, the colleague will
C. instill hope and normalize the colleague’s feelings by stating that everyone feels this way when they begin working with this population
D. provide her with training information

Answer 74

B. inform her that she doesn’t inform the supervisor, the colleague will

Question 75

A therapist is working at a state-funded agency. The clinical supervisor tells the therapist to submit billing for sessions that did not occur. The therapist expresses concerns about the legality of the request and the clinical supervisor states that the head of the agency wants increased billing. How should the therapist respond?

A. comply with the directive
B. address concerns to the head of the agency
C. document the concern in notes
D. file a formal complaint with the BBS and state funding board

Answer 75

B. address concerns to the head of the agency