Final answer:
PHI can be disclosed to the judicial system when a court order or subpoena is received, as mandated by HIPPA. Therapists cannot base disclosure on mood or discretion but must follow legal standards. The correct option is b.
Step-by-step explanation:
Protected health information (PHI) can be disclosed to the judicial system or court system under specific circumstances. This disclosure can occur when a court order or subpoena compelling such disclosure is received. Thus, the correct answer to when PHI can be disclosed to the judicial system is c) when a court order or subpoena is received. It's not a matter of the therapist's mood or personal discretion, but a strict adherence to legal and ethical standards. The Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPPA) mandates the maintenance of strict confidentiality of patient records, making it illegal to disclose PHI without proper authorization or legal requirement.
Therefore, option b) Only if the patient consents is partially correct, as consent can also be a reason for disclosure, but it is not the only instance. On the other hand, the other options presented, such as a) when the therapist is in a good mood and d) whenever the therapist feels like it, are incorrect as they do not adhere to the legal requirements and ethical considerations outlined by HIPPA.