In what situation can psychologists share client information without consent?

Psychologists are ethically and legally bound to maintain the confidentiality of client information. However, there are specific situations in which they can disclose this information without obtaining client consent. One of those situations is when there is a legal obligation to do so, such as when a court orders the release of information, or when there is a clear risk of harm to the client or others, such as in instances of suspected abuse, suicidal intent, or threats of violence.

The rationale for this allowance is grounded in the need to protect the client or others from imminent harm and to comply with legal requirements. For instance, if a psychologist learns that a client poses a risk of harm to themselves or someone else, they have an ethical duty to take necessary precautions, which may include disclosing certain information to appropriate authorities or individuals.

In contrast, sharing information in public forums, seeking personal advice without a clear ethical basis, or requiring verbal permission from the client do not align with the ethical standards for confidentiality and privacy, as these scenarios do not necessarily meet the threshold for justified disclosure without consent.