Which of the following statements about disclosure without consent is true?

The understanding that disclosure without consent is permitted if it prevents imminent harm is grounded in ethical and legal principles governing mental health practice. In scenarios where there is a clear and immediate risk of harm to the client or to others, mental health professionals are obligated to take steps to ensure safety. This aligns with the legal requirement for duty to warn or protect, which typically allows for the breach of confidentiality.

By allowing disclosure in these circumstances, providers can intervene effectively to prevent potential harm. This principle is essential not only for protecting the welfare of individuals but also for promoting public safety. Such disclosure is not arbitrary; it comes from a place of urgency and necessity, ensuring that the mental health provider acts in the best interests of all involved.

In contrast, the other options present misinterpretations of confidentiality and disclosure ethics. For example, suggesting that disclosure can occur simply if the client is not harmed overlooks the critical nature of consent in therapeutic relationships. Additionally, relating disclosure to the provider's belief that it will benefit the client could lead to breaches of trust and misuse of discretion. The idea that disclosure is never allowed under any circumstances is too absolute and fails to recognize the exceptions that are crucial for safety and risk mitigation in mental health contexts.