During intake, why is it important for clients to sign an informed consent form?

• A. To acquaint clients with program rules, regulations and boundaries.
• B. To waive the client's rights to confidentiality.
• C. To collect billing information.
• D. To schedule the next appointment.

Answer: (A)

Signing an informed consent form at intake sets up the agreement between client and program by clearly communicating what the program will do, how it will operate, and what the boundaries are. This helps the client understand the rules, regulations, and expectations from the start, so they can participate knowingly and voluntarily. It also documents that the client has been informed about confidentiality and its limits, potential risks and benefits of treatment, and their rights within the service. This transparency builds trust and protects both the client and the counselor legally and ethically.

The other options aren’t the main purpose of informed consent. It doesn’t waive confidentiality; it explains what will be shared and under what circumstances disclosures may occur. Billing information and scheduling are administrative tasks handled separately from the consent process.