A client tells their coach that they can't stop thinking about harming themselves and shares specific information about when and how they are planning to do it Which action should the coach take first?
A.
Tell the client to call a therapist
B.
Contact the appropriate emergency response services
The ICF Code of Ethics (Section 4.3) allows breaches of confidentiality "when required by law or to prevent serious harm," and suicidal ideation with a specific plan constitutes an immediate risk. Coaching boundaries exclude handling mental health crises (ICF Definition of Coaching), requiring urgent action. Let’s assess:
A. Tell the client to call a therapist: This delays intervention in a crisis and shifts responsibility to the client, who may not act, contradicting the coach’s duty to prevent harm (ICF Code of Ethics, Section 2.5).
B. Contact the appropriate emergency response services: This is the first step when a client presents an imminent threat to themselves, aligning with ethical and legal obligations to prioritize safety (ICF Code of Ethics, Section 4.3).
C. Schedule more frequent coaching sessions: This is inadequate for an emergency and exceeds coaching’s scope (ICF Coaching Boundaries).
D. Discuss the issue with the client’s family: This breaches confidentiality without consent unless harm is imminent and emergency services are unavailable, making it a secondary step (ICF Code of Ethics, Section 4).
Option B is the first action, as it addresses the immediate danger per ICF ethics and boundaries.
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