Lowering the age of consent: Legal, ethical, and clinical implications of adolescent-directed therapy

Lowering the age of consent: Legal, ethical, and clinical implications of adolescent-directed therapy
Special Feature
Kathleen McNamara
Family Court Review, 8 June 2023
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.