Praxis School Counselor (5422) Practice Exam

Which of the following best describes privileged communication?

1. A condition in effect when a person opts to withhold what is believed to be vital information voluntarily or involuntarily

2. An obligation to notify members involved in a potentially harmful situation

3. A legal rule that protects communications within the counseling relationship from compelled disclosure in a court proceeding

4. Choosing words judiciously in an effort to maintain optimal communication with those who have the need to know

The correct answer is: A legal rule that protects communications within the counseling relationship from compelled disclosure in a court proceeding

Privileged communication refers to the legal protection of confidential and sensitive information shared between an individual and their counselor. Option A is incorrect because privileged communication applies to a legal setting and not simply an individual choosing not to disclose information. Option B is incorrect because it is describing a duty to warn, which is a separate concept from privileged communication. Option D is incorrect because it is a general suggestion for effective communication, but does not pertain specifically to privileged communication.