Does the CEAP code require written informed consent before third parties can access a client's information?

Does the CEAP code require written informed consent before third parties can access a client's information?

• A. Yes, written informed consent is required.
• B. No, third parties may access information without consent.
• C. Consent is required only for family members.
• D. Consent is optional, at the practitioner's discretion.

Answer: (A)

In EAP practice, confidentiality is a core obligation. The CEAP ethics code requires that any disclosure of a client's information to third parties be done only with the client's written informed consent. Writing this consent down ensures the client understands what will be shared, with whom, and for what purpose, protecting their privacy and giving them control over their information. There are important exceptions, however. In situations mandated by law or when there is a risk of harm or abuse, information may be disclosed without prior consent to comply with legal requirements or protect safety. These are limited, defined exceptions, not the general rule. So, the reason this is the best answer is that, outside of those narrowly defined legal or safety exceptions, the standard expectation in CEAP practice is to obtain written informed consent before third parties access client information. Access without consent, or making consent optional or limited only to family members, does not align with ethical confidentiality requirements.

In EAP practice, confidentiality is a core obligation. The CEAP ethics code requires that any disclosure of a client's information to third parties be done only with the client's written informed consent. Writing this consent down ensures the client understands what will be shared, with whom, and for what purpose, protecting their privacy and giving them control over their information.

There are important exceptions, however. In situations mandated by law or when there is a risk of harm or abuse, information may be disclosed without prior consent to comply with legal requirements or protect safety. These are limited, defined exceptions, not the general rule.

So, the reason this is the best answer is that, outside of those narrowly defined legal or safety exceptions, the standard expectation in CEAP practice is to obtain written informed consent before third parties access client information. Access without consent, or making consent optional or limited only to family members, does not align with ethical confidentiality requirements.