When counseling is initiated, and throughout the counseling process as necessary, counselors inform clients of the purposes, goals, techniques, procedures, limitations, potential risks and benefits of service to be performed, and other pertinent information. Counselors take steps to ensure that clients understand the implications of diagnosis, the intended use of tests and reports, fees, and billing arrangements. Clients have the right to expect confidentiality and to be provided with an explanation of its limitations, including supervision and/or treatment team professionals; to obtain clear information about their case records; to participate in the ongoing treatment plans; and to refuse any recommended services and be advised of the consequences of such refusal. (See E.V.1. and G.II.)

Counselors offer clients the freedom to choose whether to enter into a counseling relationship and to determine which profession(s) will provide counseling. Restrictions that limit choices of clients are fully explained.

When counseling minors or persons unable to give voluntary informed consent, counselors act in these client's best interest. (See B.III.)