# What should a clinician do when an adult client discloses gender-based or sexual violence?

URL: https://tymirahealth.com/resources/faqs/what-should-a-clinician-do-when-an-adult-client-discloses-gender-based-or-sexual-violence
For: Clinicians | Mental health care | Reviewed by Independent clinical reviewer, Registered mental health clinician, Kenya | Last reviewed 8 November 2026

**Answer:** Prioritise safety and the client's choices. Kenya's 2024 National Standard Operating Procedures for the Management of GBV set out survivor-centred care, including mental health screening and referral for time-sensitive medical care such as post-rape care. For adults, reporting to police generally depends on the survivor's informed decision, unless the law requires otherwise or there is serious risk to others. Offer information on medical, legal and psychosocial services, document carefully, and involve a supervisor where risk is high. Different rules apply if the survivor is a child.

Sources: Ministry of Health, Kenya (NASCOP): https://lvcthealth.org/ast/uploads/2024/10/2024-STANDARD-OPERATING-PROCEDURES-080824-.pdf - Kenya Law: https://new.kenyalaw.org/akn/ke/act/1989/10/eng@2023-12-11 - Kenya Law: https://new.kenyalaw.org/akn/ke/act/2022/29

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