Vignette 4
A psychologist is treating a client who is involved in a legal proceeding. The client presents the psychologist with information about a well-known, local psychologist who released confidential information to an attorney without a signed release or court order. After the psychologist reviews the information presented, it is clear to the treating psychologist that other psychologist breached confidentiality.
The treating psychologist knows the local psychologist who released the information, but does not have a strong relationship with him. The treating psychologist is questioning what to do. The treating psychologist believes the options are:
1. Address the matter with the other psychologist directly.
2. Refer the matter to the State Board of Psychology.
3. Encourage the client to file a complaint with the State Board of Psychology.
Are there any other options?
What are the possible emotional reactions to this situation? And, how would you, as the treating psychologist, deal with those emotions?
What is a likely course of action?
