If a client reports ongoing risk after discharge, what is the counselor's appropriate course of action?

• A. Ignore the risk and terminate services
• B. Simply provide crisis resources without follow-up
• C. Reassess in a few weeks and do nothing else
• D. Document the risk, initiate safety planning, and coordinate with applicable crisis resources

Answer: (D)

Managing ongoing risk after discharge requires a deliberate, safety-focused response that protects the client and ensures continuity of care. The best course is to formally document the risk in the client’s record so there is an official, traceable note of the concern, its context, and the intent to address it. This documentation provides accountability and a clear reference for all members of the treatment team.

Following that, the counselor should develop and implement a safety plan with the client. This plan identifies specific warning signs, coping strategies, support contacts, and concrete steps to take if danger feels imminent. It also establishes agreements about when and how to seek help, ensuring the client has a concrete, actionable path during a crisis rather than feeling abandoned after discharge.

Finally, coordinate with applicable crisis resources. This means connecting the client with crisis lines or community resources, coordinating with medical or psychiatric services if needed, and arranging urgent care or emergency transport when safety requires it. Throughout, follow confidentiality rules and involve appropriate supervision or treatment team members as required. This comprehensive approach addresses risk in a timely, responsible way, unlike simply providing resources without follow-up, ignoring risk, or doing nothing after reassessment.