Client dignity means treating every client with respect regardless of behavior, ability, or age. Confidentiality means protecting identifying information about clients in every setting, including outside of sessions.
Example
An RBT wants to post a short clip of a client’s progress on social media, with the child’s face blurred. Even blurred, sharing session footage without written authorization can violate confidentiality.
Key points
- Respect first: dignity means not discussing a client’s behavior in front of them as if they can’t hear, and using respectful language always.
- Confidential by default: client names, diagnoses, and session details stay private unless there’s written authorization to share.
- No identifying posts: the RBT Ethics Code specifically prohibits sharing client-identifying information on social media.
- Secure records: data sheets, notes, and files should be stored and disposed of in a way that protects client identity.
Common mistake
Thinking confidentiality only applies to talking to outsiders. It also covers casual conversations with coworkers who aren’t on the case.
Quick check
An RBT discusses a client’s session by name in the break room where other families can overhear. Is this a confidentiality issue? Yes.
Keep studying
RBT Ethics Code · HIPAA basics for RBTs · RBT glossary
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