What must counselors assess before disclosing information about contagious diseases?

Counselors must assess the intent of clients to inform others before disclosing information about contagious diseases because this consideration is crucial in maintaining the balance between public safety and client confidentiality. If a counselor determines that a client is aware of their contagious status and is unwilling to inform potential contacts, it raises ethical and legal concerns regarding the risk of transmission to others.

Counselors are held to standards that emphasize safeguarding client information while also being mindful of public health implications. By understanding the client's intent, counselors can navigate the complexities of mandatory reporting laws and confidentiality obligations effectively, thereby ensuring that they act appropriately in situations where there might be a risk of harm to others.

In contrast, assessing factors like a client's financial status, age, or location is not directly relevant to the decision of whether to disclose information about contagious diseases. These aspects may play roles in other therapeutic considerations but do not specifically address the responsibility counselors have regarding public health safety and client confidentiality in the context of contagious diseases.