How should a PSS involve family or support persons in crisis planning?

• A. With client consent, provide information to supports, and respect client preferences for involvement.
• B. Involve supports automatically even if client doesn't want.
• C. Never involve supports to protect privacy.
• D. Only inform supports after crisis has occurred.

Answer: (A)

The important idea here is involving family or support persons in crisis planning in a way that respects the client’s autonomy and consent. The best approach is to work with the client to decide who can be informed and involved, share only what is necessary, and honor the client’s preferences for involvement. This approach strengthens safety by using trusted supports, ensures the client remains in control of their plan, and builds a clearer, proactive response before a crisis hits.

In practice, this means having an upfront conversation with the client about who should be notified, what information can be shared, and how those supports will be involved. The PSS should obtain explicit consent and keep it as a living agreement—revisiting it as needed—and document the client’s preferences. Privacy is important, but it should be balanced with safety through informed, voluntary involvement.

Choices that involve supports automatically, or never involve supports to protect privacy, or only inform supports after a crisis, undermine the client’s control and diminish the effectiveness of crisis planning.