What consequence must LPCs inform clients about regarding non-payment?

In the context of the Oklahoma Legal and Ethical Responsibilities Exam, licensed professional counselors (LPCs) are obligated to inform clients about the potential consequences they may face if they fail to make payments for counseling services. This includes the possibility of termination of the counseling relationship.

When a client does not meet their financial obligations, the counselor has the ethical responsibility to communicate that non-payment could lead to the cessation of services. This is important because it allows clients to understand the serious nature of their financial commitments and the potential impact it can have on their therapeutic support. Transparency in this aspect helps them make informed decisions about their engagement in the counseling process.

Understanding and adhering to these ethical guidelines protects both the counselor's ability to operate sustainably and the client's right to be informed about how financial matters can affect their access to care. It fosters an environment of trust and accountability within the therapeutic relationship while also ensuring that LPCs maintain ethical standards in their practice.