Informed consent must be obtained in which of the following scenarios?

Informed consent is a fundamental principle in counseling practice that ensures clients are fully aware of the nature of the counseling relationship, the services provided, and any risks involved. It is not limited to voluntary adult clients or specific types of therapy; rather, it applies to all professional interactions in the counseling context.

In the context of supervising a Counselor in Training (CIT), it is essential to obtain informed consent because the client needs to be aware that they are being treated by a trainee and that the supervision process involves additional professionals overseeing their care. This transparency is important to uphold the ethical standards of practice and maintain trust within the counselor-client relationship.

The requirement for informed consent extends beyond just private therapy sessions or clients who require treatment. It also includes situations where clients may be participating in training, research, or educational settings, reinforcing the idea that clients retain their rights to understand and consent to the services being rendered, regardless of the setting or participant status.