Which statement about confidentiality in coaching is true?

• A. Confidentiality has no limits.
• B. Confidentiality has limits and must be explained during informed consent.
• C. Confidentiality can be ignored if the client agrees.
• D. Confidentiality is not considered in coaching.

Answer: (B)

Confidentiality in coaching is about protecting what the client shares, but it’s not absolute. The statement that confidentiality has limits and must be explained during informed consent is best because informed consent sets the groundwork: it tells the client what will stay private, what might be shared, with whom, and under which circumstances. Coaches typically disclose information to a supervisor or other professionals for supervision or care, and there are legal or safety-related exceptions (such as protecting someone from imminent harm or complying with a court order). Making these limits clear before work begins helps the client understand the boundaries and make an informed choice to engage. The other options misstate practice: confidentiality isn’t unlimited, disclosure isn’t allowable merely because the client agrees in every case, and confidentiality is indeed a consideration in coaching.