Should CPSS share personal opinion about a client's diagnosis?

• A. Yes, always.
• B. Only if asked directly.
• C. Only with supervisor approval.
• D. No, never.

Answer: (D)

A CPSS should keep professional boundaries and avoid offering personal opinions about a client’s diagnosis. Diagnoses are clinical judgments made by the treatment team, and sharing a personal view on that diagnosis can mislead, create bias, or blur the line between peer support and medical advice. The focus of peer support is on recovery, empowerment, and practical supports that help the person live their life and work toward their goals, not on interpreting or validating a clinical label.

If a client asks for your view on their diagnosis, respond with nonjudgmental, factual support and guide them back to their clinician for interpretation. You can discuss how symptoms affect daily life, what coping strategies have helped others with similar experiences, and how to navigate supports, while avoiding any personal diagnosis opinions. If safety or policy concerns arise, follow supervision and organizational procedures.