What duty does a therapist have when a client may pose a danger to themselves or others?

When a client poses a potential danger to themselves or to others, the therapist has a legal and ethical duty to take appropriate action to prevent harm. This duty often includes notifying law enforcement and/or seeking hospitalization for the client if their safety or the safety of others is at risk.

Therapists are mandated reporters, which means they are required to report situations where there is a credible threat of harm. This can involve contacting authorities to help ensure the client's safety or implementing interventions that secure immediate care, such as arranging for hospitalization when necessary.

The other options do not align with the ethical and legal responsibilities of a therapist. Continuing therapy without intervention ignores the immediate risk of harm. Breaking off therapy abruptly does not address the danger and could lead to negative outcomes for the client or others. Ignoring the threat is also unacceptable, as it could lead to serious consequences if the client acts on their dangerous impulses. Thus, seeking assistance from law enforcement or medical professionals is the correct and responsible response in such situations.