Lowering the age of consent: Legal,ethical, and clinical implications of adolescent-directed therapy |
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| Authors: | Kathleen McNamara |
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| Affiliation: | Independent Practice, Fort Collins, Colorado, USA |
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| Abstract: | This article discusses a recently enacted Colorado law that aims to reduce the youth suicide rate by lowering the age of consent for psychotherapy from age 15 to age 12. The author discusses the challenges therapists face when young adolescents seek therapy without parental consent in cases involving interparental conflict. Suggestions for managing adolescent-directed therapy are offered. |
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| Keywords: | adolescent-directed therapy Colorado court-involved therapy high conflict youth mental health youth suicide |
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