WHAT TEENS NEED TO KNOW about consent & confidentiality
Will my parents know what I am talking about in therapy?
Your therapist works for YOUR best interest. In order provide a safe and private space for you, your parent will not be provided detailed information about your therapy. We can give your parent/guardian updates about your therapy but only if you consent. If you wish to allow your therapist to disclose information to your parent(s), please discuss this with your therapist and together you can create a plan on how to proceed. However, if a parent pays/books your sessions for you, they may know about your attendance and scheduling of appointments. If you do not want to share any information including scheduling, appointments, payments, with your parent then you must be responsible for these aspects of your therapy and treatment and let your therapist know during your first session.
While confidentiality and privacy is a top priority, there are limits to what we can and cannot share/disclose to your parent/guardian. It is very important to note that if the therapist believes you are at risk of harm or danger to yourself or someone else then it is legally required for your therapist to inform the appropriate individuals to ensure you are safe and well. This can include your parents/guardians, emergency contact, children's aid and other authorities. Please see our Privacy & Confidentiality Policy for more information.
I am not 18 years old yet, do I need my parent's permission to get psychotherapy?
While there is no set age of consent, if you are 15 or older, you do not need parent/guardian permission to begin therapy. As long as you can understand the process of consent and what therapy entails, you can access and see a therapist on your own accord. We will provide you with the necessary documentation to help you understand the consent process for counselling. Please note, if you are not in the position to pay for your therapy sessions or take care of scheduling/payments, usually your parents/guardians will be responsible for this. You will need to talk to your parent/guardian for this.
If you are under the age of 15, we will need the consent of all parents & guardians who share or have joint/sole custody of you. They must complete and sign documents that indicate they consent for your therapy and provide their contact information etc. If you need help and more information, please contact our office and we will be happy to walk you through this.