ASWB Clinical Practice Exam 2025 – Complete Study Resource

The social worker's refusal to provide the client's records in this situation is considered unethical because, in general, clients have the right to access their own records, regardless of their attendance status in therapy. The ethical standards governing social work practice emphasize transparency and the importance of honoring clients' rights to their personal information.

When a client requests their records, the social worker should typically comply, as clients have a right to understand and review the information that has been documented about them. This aligns with ethical principles that prioritize client autonomy and informed consent. Even if the client has stopped attending sessions, the responsibility to provide access to the records remains, as it supports the client's ability to make decisions about their future care and to ensure they can address any inaccuracies or concerns within their records.

In this scenario, the ethical obligation to provide access to client records exists independent of the client’s current engagement status with the agency or provider. This principle reinforces the notion that clients retain their rights to their records and information at all times, creating a foundation of trust and accountability in the therapeutic relationship.