Which of the following is NOT a purpose of collateral interviews?

• A. To corroborate information and assess safety
• B. To obtain information without client consent
• C. To override client preferences
• D. To bypass client confidentiality

Answer: (D)

Collateral interviews are used to gather information from people who know the client in order to verify what the client has said and to assess safety, risk, and the overall context for planning treatment. This practice helps create a fuller, more accurate picture of the situation while still respecting the client’s rights. It is not a purpose to override what the client wants or to share information outside appropriate boundaries. Information is shared with collateral only with the client’s informed consent, or under proper legal/ethical mandates. Bypassing or bypassing confidentiality would violate those boundaries and is not a legitimate aim of collateral interviews.