Many codes of practice would support the breaking of confidentiality in the case where a client is threatening to kill somebody or themselves. With the isolation of an internet relationship, both client and counsellor may be separated from normal support networks and contacts. Although, methods of communicating emotions over the Internet have evolved, they are very basic and are currently no replacement for face to face contact. This may be difficult if not impossible to avoid when the client may be in another part of the world or isolated from the usual support networks. The client may also be communicating with the counsellor anonymously, using email services which hide the sender's identity.
Counselling requires a confidential environment, within agreed limits.
It is not clear that the Internet can currently offer the necessary standards for confidentiality. Face to face counselling sessions have agreed boundaries. For instance clients may see their counsellor once a week for an hour. Clients can send electronic mail when they choose. In a more conventional setting, meetings may be limited by the service being closed.