Are counselors permitted to disclose client information without consent?

Counselors in Maryland, as in many jurisdictions, are generally required to maintain client confidentiality. However, there are specific legal exceptions where disclosure of client information without consent is permitted. This includes situations such as when a counselor believes there is a risk of harm to the client or others, during mandatory reporting of child abuse or neglect, or when ordered by a court of law.

These legal exceptions are designed to protect the safety and welfare of individuals and the community while still maintaining the principle of confidentiality that underpins the counselor-client relationship. This limited allowance for disclosure underscores the importance of client trust and the ethical responsibilities counselors have to protect that trust while also complying with the law when necessary.