Counselors are increasingly being forced to make difficult judgments about degrees of client dangerousness and are being held legally liable for not taking reasonable steps to protect third parties from harm at the client's hands. Also, because of their own lack of knowledge and skills or because of their own personal needs, counselors are part of the problem rather than the cure. Through continuing education, knowledge of the law, knowledge of professional ethical standards, consultation with peers and supervisors, and knowledge of self, counselors can be prepared to address violence-related problems in the context of professional duties. Case material is used to illustrate both the ethical standards and the laws that provide directives for counselors' professional behavior. 19 references. (Author abstract modified)