When managing conflicts of interest in substance abuse counseling, which action is recommended?

• A. Ignore the conflict if it helps the plan
• B. Disclose potential conflicts
• C. Use the conflict to influence decisions
• D. Delay addressing the conflict

Answer: (B)

Transparency in conflicts of interest is essential. When a counselor has a potential conflict, the best practice is to disclose it to a supervisor or the appropriate ethics body so it can be reviewed and steps can be taken to manage the risk. This keeps client welfare at the center, preserves trust, and ensures decisions are not unduly shaped by personal interests. Disclosure allows for supervision, possible recusal from certain decisions, or changes in role to prevent bias from affecting treatment. Ignoring the conflict, delaying addressing it, or using the conflict to influence decisions can undermine ethical standards and harm clients by compromising objectivity and trust.