A situation involving a report of recent child abuse requires what?

A report of recent child abuse necessitates immediate attention, and it is imperative for counselors to be aware that when a client discloses such information, the counselor must act accordingly. This situation falls under mandatory reporting laws, which require that counselors report any suspected or disclosed incidents of child abuse to the proper authorities. The focus on the direct report from the client highlights the counselor's role in responding to the immediate needs of the child, ensuring their safety, and complying with legal responsibilities.

In this context, the other choices reflect different aspects of counseling ethics and professional practices, which are important but do not directly address the immediate obligation to report child abuse. Referring a client back to a source or discussing the case with supervisors or other counselors may be part of ongoing case handling but does not take priority over the need to report abuse to protect the child involved. Therefore, the client's report of recent child abuse is central to the counselor's responsibility in ensuring appropriate actions are taken.