If a client expresses a desire to harm another person, what should the counselor's initial action be?

When a client expresses a desire to harm another person, the counselor's initial action should focus on understanding the seriousness and context of the client's intent. Questioning the client about their feelings and thoughts provides critical insight into the nature of the threat. This approach helps the counselor assess whether the client is expressing a transient thought or if there is a genuine, immediate risk of harm.

Engaging in dialogue can also foster a therapeutic environment where the client feels supported and is more likely to share their feelings in detail, which can inform the counselor's subsequent actions. This initial assessment is crucial for formulating an appropriate response while also fulfilling ethical obligations to ensure the safety of all individuals involved, including the client.

The other options present responses that may not adequately address the situation without prior understanding. For example, directly warning the potential victim might escalate the situation or reveal information the client intended to keep confidential. Committing the client to a hospital could be necessary in extreme cases but should typically follow a thorough evaluation of risk. Threatening to terminate services could undermine the trust needed to encourage open communication and may not be the most constructive first action.