What role does confidentiality play in a school counselor's practice?

Confidentiality is a fundamental principle in the practice of school counseling, serving to protect the privacy of students and the trust they place in counselors. While confidentiality is crucial, it is not an absolute concept and must be balanced with other responsibilities, particularly the duty to protect students from harm. This duty may arise when a student discloses information that indicates they could be at risk of harm to themselves or others. In such cases, the counselor is ethically and legally required to take appropriate actions, which may include breaking confidentiality to ensure the safety of the student or others.

In practice, this means that while counselors work to maintain confidentiality and create a safe space for students to share their thoughts and feelings openly, they also must be prepared to act in situations where a student's safety is at stake. Finding this balance is crucial for maintaining trust while ensuring that students receive the protection and support they need.