What should a psychologist do if they suspect a client is being harmed?

When a psychologist suspects that a client is being harmed, taking immediate action to ensure the client's safety is paramount. This response is crucial due to the ethical and legal obligations to protect clients from harm. Psychologists are mandated reporters in many jurisdictions, meaning they may be legally required to report any suspected cases of abuse or potential threats to the safety of clients or others.

By prioritizing the safety of the client, the psychologist can initiate interventions that may include assessing the level of danger, providing the client with appropriate resources, or notifying authorities if there is an imminent risk of harm. The immediate action not only demonstrates the psychologist's commitment to the client's well-being but also aligns with ethical guidelines that emphasize the responsibility to safeguard vulnerable individuals.

Addressing the other options, confronting the client immediately may create a lack of trust or make the client feel unsafe, which can adversely affect the therapeutic relationship. Similarly, simply documenting the observation without acting does not address the potential risk to the client and might neglect the responsibility to intervene when harm is suspected. Waiting for the client to disclose issues can lead to increased danger if the client feels unable to open up about their situation, making proactive measures necessary when harm is suspected.