Dr. Meera Iyer, a psychotherapist in Pune, completed her clinical training and still attends regular workshops to update her skills. Rohan, a 20-year-old college student, comes to her with severe anxiety. In the first session she explains what the therapy will involve, how long it may take and what it will cost, and Rohan agrees in writing before treatment begins. Later, Rohan's uncle phones her to ask what Rohan has been discussing; she politely refuses to tell him. Rohan follows a faith different from hers, and she treats his beliefs with respect. She keeps the relationship strictly professional, and she judges every decision by one test: will it ease Rohan's distress?
Meera explains the nature, length and cost of the therapy, and Rohan agrees in writing before treatment begins. Which ethical standard does this step meet?
Answer & explanation
Correct answer: option 4
The correct answer is Option (4) → Taking informed consent
Option (1) Maintaining confidentiality of the client — Incorrect. Confidentiality means keeping what the client shares private. It fits her refusal to tell the uncle.
Option (2) Respect for human rights and dignity — Incorrect. Respect for human rights and dignity is about treating the client as a person of worth, as Meera does with his faith. Agreeing to a treatment plan is a different standard.
Option (3) Integrity of the practitioner-client relationship — Incorrect. Integrity concerns keeping the relationship honest and professional throughout therapy.
Option (4) Taking informed consent — Correct. Informed consent means the client agrees to treatment after being told what it involves. Meera explains the therapy first and Rohan then agrees in writing, so this is informed consent.
NCERT (2026-27): “Ethics in Psychotherapy “1. Informed consent needs to be taken. 2. Confidentiality of the client should be maintained.” “3. Alleviating personal distress and suffering should be the goal of all attempts of the therapist.” “4. Integrity of the practitioner-client relationship is important.” “5. Respect for human rights and dignity. 6. Professional competence and skills are essential.” |