The ICF Code of Ethics (Section 4.3) permits breaching confidentiality "to prevent serious harm" when a client poses an immediate risk, such as self-harm. Coaching boundaries exclude mental health crises (ICF Definition of Coaching), requiring urgent action. Let’s evaluate:
A. Try counseling the client: Counseling exceeds coaching’s scope (ICF Coaching Boundaries), and delays critical intervention in an emergency.
B. Call emergency response services: This is the first step for immediate risk, aligning with ethical and legal obligations to prioritize safety (Section 4.3).
C. Talk with the client’s family about getting help: This breaches confidentiality without imminent danger justification and isn’t the fastest response (Section 4).
D. Discuss with a mental health professional: Consulting delays action; emergency services are needed first (Section 2.5).
Option B is the first step, per ICF ethics and boundaries.
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