Goal: To consider the benefits and risks involved in participating in social media
websites..
Outside Class Activity
Title: Handling a Request for Transfer of a Client’s Records vs. Responding to a Subpoena
Learning
Goal: To be aware of the similarities and differences among the steps a counselor should take in responding
to a request for transfer of a client’s records and in responding to a subpoena.
Procedures: List the considerations relevant to each of the two types of situations, and then
outline specifically the steps the counselor should take in responding to each.
Topic for Self-Reflection/Journaling
Topic: Reflect on the use you currently make of social media sites. Project yourself into
Case Study
Sheila came to your office about eight months ago, seeking counseling and stating that she “hoped to save her
marriage.” After a few sessions with Sheila, you had suggested that couples counseling might be helpful, but her
husband, Roy, refused to participate. Three months ago, Sheila and Roy went through a very nasty breakup of their
marriage, and now you have been subpoenaed to produce all of your records pertaining to Sheila’s treatment. Sheila
has told you to comply with the subpoena, saying that she has nothing to hide. Despite your suggestion to Sheila
that it may not be in her best interest to disclose those records, she has refused to assert the privilege. What should
you do?
Case Study Discussion
You should tell Sheila that you respect her decision to waive confidentiality and that you would like to
discuss the matter with her in greater detail. It may be therapeutically advisable to have this discussion with Sheila
authorization to release the records pursuant to the subpoena.
1. What types of issues might be related to Sheila’s decision to release her records?