When using a self-disclosure policy, which statement is most accurate?

• A. Self-disclosure can blur boundaries between a worker and client
• B. Universal guidelines exist about self-disclosure that apply in all cases
• C. Judicious self-disclosure, when appropriate, can enhance the therapeutic alliance
• D. Most situations require substantial self-disclosure

Answer: (C)

The tested idea here is using self-disclosure in helping relationships with intent and boundaries. When self-disclosure is judicious and appropriate, it can humanize the worker, normalize the client’s experiences, and invite openness, thereby strengthening the therapeutic alliance. The key is intentionality and relevance: disclosures should be brief, focused on the client’s goals, and guided by supervision and ethical considerations. They should not be used to satisfy the worker’s needs or blur boundaries, and they’re rarely warranted as substantial or frequent. This is why the statement that judicious self-disclosure, when appropriate, can enhance the therapeutic alliance is the most accurate.