If a child is endangered due to a parent’s addiction, what is the counselor's responsibility?

The responsibility of the counselor in a situation where a child is endangered due to a parent’s addiction is to report the incident to the authorities. This is a critical course of action because child safety is of paramount importance. When a child is in a potentially harmful environment, it is essential for professionals, including counselors, to take steps to ensure the child's well-being.

Mandatory reporting laws require counselors to report any suspicion of child abuse or neglect, which includes situations where a child's safety may be compromised due to a parent's substance abuse issues. By reporting to the authorities, the counselor helps to initiate an investigation that can lead to protective measures being put in place for the child. This step is vital for safeguarding the child's physical and emotional health, as well as for potentially providing the parent with the necessary resources and support to address their addiction.

Providing counseling for the child or supporting the parent in recovery are important aspects of a counselor's role, but they do not take precedence over the immediate need to ensure safety in cases of potential harm. Ignoring the situation can have severe consequences for the child's welfare, particularly if there are underlying issues that are not immediately visible. Therefore, the correct action is to engage with authorities who can provide the appropriate intervention in these scenarios.