If you suspect a client is being abused, what should you do?

When you suspect that a client is being abused, the most appropriate response is to inform your supervisor as soon as possible. Reporting to your supervisor is crucial because they are trained to handle such situations appropriately and can take the necessary steps to protect the client and investigate the matter further. It is important to take any allegations seriously and act promptly to ensure the safety and well-being of the client.

While confronting the client directly might seem like a way to help, it could potentially put the client in danger or lead to further complications. Telling the client that you won’t report it would undermine your responsibility to protect them and could enable the abuse to continue. Waiting for the situation to improve on its own does not address the immediate risk and may result in further harm to the client. Therefore, notifying your supervisor is the most responsible and effective action to take in such circumstances.