You are a substance abuse counselor as such you are a mandated child abuse reporter in NYS. You are conducting a group therapy session where a client tearfully confesses he hits his 8 yr old son every time he drinks. He further states he only hits him when he is intoxicated. He appears remorseful and contrite about these actions. What steps, if any, do you take after the group?

Ciccarelli: Psychology_5 (5th Edition)
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Chapter1: The Science Of Psychology
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### Scenario: Mandated Child Abuse Reporting as a Substance Abuse Counselor

**Context:**
You are a substance abuse counselor, and as such, you are a mandated child abuse reporter in New York State (NYS). 

**Situation:**
During a group therapy session, a client tearfully confesses that he hits his 8-year-old son every time he drinks. He further states that he only hits him when he is intoxicated. The client appears remorseful and contrite about these actions.

**Question:**
What steps, if any, do you take after the group? 

---

**Explanation & Action Steps:**

1. **Immediate Response:**
   - Calmly acknowledge the client’s confession and ensure the safety and support of all group members.
   - Do not express judgment or anger. Maintain a professional demeanor to ensure the client remains open and cooperative.

2. **Mandated Reporting:**
   - As a mandated reporter in NYS, you are legally required to report any suspected child abuse or maltreatment.
   - Immediately after the session, contact the NYS Central Register of Child Abuse and Maltreatment (SCR) to report the incident.

3. **Documentation:**
   - Document the client’s statements in detail, including the date, time, and context of the disclosure.
   - Ensure that the documentation is accurate and factual without personal opinions.

4. **Follow-Up:**
   - Cooperate with Child Protective Services (CPS) during their investigation.
   - Provide any additional information or documentation they may require.

5. **Client Support:**
   - Encourage the client to seek further help and resources to address his substance abuse issues.
   - Refer him to additional counseling services, parenting classes, or support groups to assist in rehabilitation and preventing further harm.

6. **Ethical Considerations:**
   - Maintain confidentiality as per legal and ethical guidelines, except where reporting requirements mandate disclosure.
   - Continue to provide empathetic support to the client while ensuring the child’s safety is prioritized.

By following these steps, you fulfil your legal obligations and uphold the ethical standards of your profession, ensuring both the safety of the child and the continued support of the client.
Transcribed Image Text:### Scenario: Mandated Child Abuse Reporting as a Substance Abuse Counselor **Context:** You are a substance abuse counselor, and as such, you are a mandated child abuse reporter in New York State (NYS). **Situation:** During a group therapy session, a client tearfully confesses that he hits his 8-year-old son every time he drinks. He further states that he only hits him when he is intoxicated. The client appears remorseful and contrite about these actions. **Question:** What steps, if any, do you take after the group? --- **Explanation & Action Steps:** 1. **Immediate Response:** - Calmly acknowledge the client’s confession and ensure the safety and support of all group members. - Do not express judgment or anger. Maintain a professional demeanor to ensure the client remains open and cooperative. 2. **Mandated Reporting:** - As a mandated reporter in NYS, you are legally required to report any suspected child abuse or maltreatment. - Immediately after the session, contact the NYS Central Register of Child Abuse and Maltreatment (SCR) to report the incident. 3. **Documentation:** - Document the client’s statements in detail, including the date, time, and context of the disclosure. - Ensure that the documentation is accurate and factual without personal opinions. 4. **Follow-Up:** - Cooperate with Child Protective Services (CPS) during their investigation. - Provide any additional information or documentation they may require. 5. **Client Support:** - Encourage the client to seek further help and resources to address his substance abuse issues. - Refer him to additional counseling services, parenting classes, or support groups to assist in rehabilitation and preventing further harm. 6. **Ethical Considerations:** - Maintain confidentiality as per legal and ethical guidelines, except where reporting requirements mandate disclosure. - Continue to provide empathetic support to the client while ensuring the child’s safety is prioritized. By following these steps, you fulfil your legal obligations and uphold the ethical standards of your profession, ensuring both the safety of the child and the continued support of the client.
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