ABSTRACT
The sample policies are provided as guidelines to prevent legal liability as the result of a crisis, a critical incident, or a traumatic event. Sample policies address confidentiality, abuse and neglect, sexual harassment, and imminent risk of suicide or self-harm. Assessment and screening instruments are also included for potential referral to resources outside of the school. Professional ethics are the principles of right or professional conduct. Crisis intervention and management procedures are often supported by administrative directives or school board policy or mandated by state law. The professional responsibility of school counselors is to fully respect the right to privacy of those with whom they enter counseling relationships. Counselors must keep abreast of and adhere to all laws, policies, and ethical standards pertaining to confidentiality. Confidentiality is an ethical duty to the student and the parent not to reveal to people, other than the parent, information that was disclosed during a private counselor—student interaction.
