What does failure to obtain informed consent expose a therapist to?

Failure to obtain informed consent can expose a therapist to civil liability because it may lead to claims of malpractice or negligence. Informed consent is a fundamental ethical principle in therapy that ensures clients are fully aware of the treatment process, the risks involved, and their rights. When a therapist does not obtain informed consent, they may be viewed as having violated the trust and autonomy of the client, which can result in legal consequences. This can include being sued for damages if a client feels that they were not adequately informed about their treatment, leading to further complications or harm.

In contrast, the other options do not accurately reflect the implications of failing to obtain informed consent. Professional praise is unlikely as non-compliance with ethical standards generally leads to criticism rather than commendation. Increased client rapport would not result from a breach of ethical guidelines but rather from building trust and transparency through proper informed consent practices. Finally, insurance benefits are not typically affected by a therapist's failure to obtain informed consent; instead, it may complicate coverage or lead to denial of claims related to any lawsuits that arise from such breaches.