What is one purpose of informed consent in counseling?

Informed consent serves several critical purposes in counseling, with one of the most significant being the establishment of trust between the counselor and the client. When clients are provided with clear, comprehensive information about the counseling process—including the nature of the services, potential risks, fees, and confidentiality issues—they are more likely to feel respected and valued. This transparency fosters an environment of trust, where clients feel safe to express their concerns and share personal information, which is essential for effective therapeutic work.

Trust is a cornerstone of the therapeutic alliance, as it encourages clients to engage openly in the counseling process. When clients understand their rights and the counselor's role, they can participate more actively in their treatment, leading to a greater sense of empowerment and collaboration in the therapeutic relationship. This trust lays the foundation for positive outcomes in the therapeutic process, as clients are more likely to commit to and benefit from their counseling sessions.