In addition to assessing client intent, what must counselors adhere to when disclosing information?

Counselors are required to adhere to relevant state laws concerning disclosure because these laws provide the legal framework within which counselors must operate. Each state has specific regulations regarding client confidentiality and the circumstances under which information can be disclosed, such as in cases of suspected abuse or when there is a risk of harm to self or others. Understanding and complying with these laws is essential for safeguarding client rights and ensuring that counselors do not breach confidentiality unlawfully.

While ethical guidelines set by national organizations also play a critical role in guiding counselors' practices, they are often informed by state laws. Therefore, adherence to relevant state laws takes precedence when considering disclosures. Although mandatory reporting regulations and school district policies may be important in specific contexts, they will generally fall under the overarching state law framework. Thus, the focus on state laws highlights the crucial aspect of legal compliance in counseling practice.