If a psychologist believes a patient poses a threat to an individual, what actions may they take?

When a psychologist believes that a patient poses a threat to an individual, they have a duty to take reasonable actions to prevent harm. Each of the actions mentioned contributes to fulfilling this responsibility.

Consulting other professionals allows the psychologist to seek guidance and discuss the situation with peers or supervisors. This collaborative approach may provide additional insights or strategies for managing the client's potential risk.

Informing the intended victim is a critical step in some cases, especially if there is an imminent threat. The principle of duty to warn can come into play here, wherein a psychologist may need to disclose the risk to the person who could be harmed, ensuring they are aware of and can take precautions against the threat.

Taking reasonable measures is essential in addressing the situation appropriately. This could involve various steps based on the specifics of the case, including safety planning, referrals for additional support, or contacting authorities if necessary.

By considering all these possible actions—consulting colleagues, informing the potential victim, and taking appropriate measures—the psychologist can effectively address the risk while adhering to ethical and legal obligations to protect individuals from harm. Therefore, the choice that encompasses all these responsibilities is the most comprehensive and correct answer.