What should counselors explain if a student asks to keep information secret?

When a student asks a counselor to keep information secret, it is crucial for the counselor to explain the limits of confidentiality. This is vital because while counselors strive to create a trusting and safe environment for students, they also have ethical and legal obligations to maintain the student’s safety and well-being.

Counselors must inform students that there are specific situations where confidentiality may need to be breached, such as when there is a risk of harm to the student or others, or in cases of abuse. By clarifying these limits, counselors help students understand the boundaries of what can be kept private, fostering informed decisions about what they choose to share.

This understanding can also empower students to discuss sensitive issues without fear of judgment, knowing the context and implications of sharing versus withholding information. The other options do not focus on this essential aspect of the counselor's responsibilities and the ethical necessity of safeguarding students while managing their expectations about privacy.