When confronted with a client's harmful disclosure, it's crucial to prioritize both their well-being and their progress. First, I approach the situation with empathy, creating a safe space for the client to express their concerns. I then assess the severity of the disclosure, balancing their mental and physical health with their fitness goals. If necessary, I refer them to appropriate professionals for support, while adjusting their training program to ensure it remains sustainable and safe. Transparency, confidentiality, and consistent communication are key in maintaining trust and protecting their progress. My focus is on providing holistic care, ensuring they feel supported and empowered.

The priority is to determine if there's an immediate danger to the client, others, or the environment. This involves asking direct questions and gathering enough information to make a risk assessment. Follow any legal or ethical obligations, such as mandatory reporting, if necessary. While client confidentiality is essential, it's important to explain that confidentiality has limits, especially if there’s a risk of harm. Be transparent with the client about the actions you need to take to ensure safety. It's important to explain that confidentiality has limits, especially if there’s a risk of harm. Be transparent with the client about the actions you need to take to ensure safety.

𝗜𝗺𝗺𝗲𝗱𝗶𝗮𝘁𝗲 𝗦𝗮𝗳𝗲𝘁𝘆: If the disclosure involves imminent harm to the client or others, prioritize safety. This may involve contacting appropriate authorities or emergency services. 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝗳𝗶𝗱𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗶𝗮𝗹𝗶𝘁𝘆 𝗟𝗶𝗺𝗶𝘁𝘀: Clearly explain the limits of confidentiality to your client. Strictly follow ICF ethics guidelines. 𝗦𝘂𝗽𝗽𝗼𝗿𝘁𝗶𝘃𝗲 𝗘𝗻𝘃𝗶𝗿𝗼𝗻𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁: Create a supportive and non-judgmental space for your client to discuss their feelings and concerns. This can help them feel understood and less isolated. 𝗣𝗿𝗼𝗳𝗲𝘀𝘀𝗶𝗼𝗻𝗮𝗹 𝗛𝗲𝗹𝗽: If the issue is beyond your expertise, encourage your client to seek help from a mental health professional.

In our recent study group, a coach shared an interesting case where a client was experiencing workplace abuse. The coach, also part of the organization, had a responsibility to report any harassment, raising the question of which duty supersedes—confidentiality or the obligation to report. We had an in-depth discussion on the limits of confidentiality, and I believe it has clear boundaries, one of which is when there’s an immediate danger to the client or others. It’s crucial to handle such situations carefully, ensuring that confidentiality is only broken when necessary, and the action taken should support the client, such as guiding them to professional help. This highlights the importance of a well-thought-out coaching agreement.

Your coaching contract that a client agrees to in your initial package purchase must have a confidentiality clause and the limits of that confidentiality. I also let clients know that all of our sessions are recorded for their protection and for mine. If a disclosure is made by my client, I interrupt the conversation as soon as possible without getting a more detailed description. I let them know that the information they are giving me is beyond the scope of confidentiality. If appropriate, I also let them know I am required to report the information. The client needs to know they are not being judged and you are willing to help them get to the resources they need to protect themselves and others while maintaining your legal duties.