Safety within group processes does not exist without the commitment for all members to maintain confidentiality; this expectation does not have an expiry date. Ethically, leaders must ensure they maintain the confidence of members and also respond to dilemmas that exist between group members. Leaders are unable to control the nature, depth, and risk of personal disclosures within group. It is important to discuss how to avoid unintentional breaches openly. For example, establishing the expectation that members are permitted to talk about their own personal reactions to group without disclosing specific information of what triggered them (Corey et al., 2018). 

Informed consent is an ongoing process that should be revisited and discussed throughout; it is not a one time event that can be introduced in the beginning, then tucked away and forgotten. Ethical guidelines require that group members understand basic information regarding the expectations of group participation so they can make reasonable decisions to enter, engage, and participate within the group process (Fallon, 2006). Informed consent is an ethical obligation that exists within all counselling groups, even ones that are mandated. Mandated clients must understand expectations for participation and consequences for not engaging in the process. When explaining informed consent, is wise to include topics to be discussed, techniques that will be utilized, and both risks and benefits of participation. Other issues to include within the process of informed consent are alternatives modalities available other than group; policies regarding attendance and fees; personal rights; and limits of confidentiality (Corey et al., 2018).

As part of the ethical obligation of informed consent, clients must be cognizant of the risks associated within group counselling settings. Even when group members are mandated, they must have clear understanding of all potential risks. The challenges within group work can be difficult, involving risks associated with vulnerability, psychological pain, and emotional hardship, especially for clients who have experienced traumatic pasts. Nevertheless, the potential for healing within group is profound. Even so, leaders must ensure ethical practice to prevent psychological harm by knowing each member’s limits, respecting their requests, having realistic expectations, managing conflict, removing judgment, and confirming hunches without interpretation (Corey et al., 2018).