How should you finalize disengagement with respect to client data and referrals?

• A. Delete all data immediately to protect privacy.
• B. Keep data indefinitely.
• C. Return or secure client data and provide referrals as appropriate.
• D. Share data with unrelated third parties.

Answer: (C)

Finalizing disengagement means handling the client’s information with confidentiality and practicality. When ending the relationship, you should return the client’s data or securely transfer it to the client or their approved successor, and provide referrals to qualified professionals if appropriate. This protects privacy, supports the client’s ongoing needs, and respects their ownership of their own information. Do not share data with unrelated third parties. Keeping data indefinitely or deleting it all at once can create privacy or regulatory issues, so follow policy to retain only as long as required and securely destroy or archive afterward. Providing relevant referrals helps the client continue support without gaps.