To whom must psychologists report when they believe someone is a danger to themselves or others?

Psychologists have a legal and ethical obligation to report situations in which they believe an individual poses a danger to themselves or others to the appropriate authorities, such as law enforcement or crisis intervention services. This duty to report is rooted in the principle of protecting the safety of individuals and the community at large.

When psychologists identify that a client may be at risk of harming themselves or others, they must take proactive steps to ensure safety, which often involves notifying relevant authorities who can intervene appropriately. These authorities have the resources and authority to provide immediate support and assessment that goes beyond the psychologist’s scope.

Options involving friends and family, other mental health professionals, or insurance companies do not fulfill the immediate safety obligations required in these circumstances. Involvement of friends and family might be encouraged to support the individual, but it does not suffice as an official report to prevent potential harm. Similarly, other mental health professionals may not take necessary action, and insurance companies have no role in crisis intervention. Therefore, reporting to authorities is the correct and necessary course of action in these situations.