Is there a way to legally see a psychiatrist without your parents knowledge if you're under 18?
I’ve been considering therapy for a few years now, since I was 13, and I really think seeing a therapist or psychiatrist would help me, but only if it was private between me and my therapist/psychiatrist. School counselors are jokes and my issues are very delicate, so I was wondering if it was legal to hire a psychiatrist without the consent of your parents?
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September 4th, 2010 at 1:03 pm
No, it is not legal unless you are an emancipated minor. For any outpatient medical care, all minors must have parental consent. Such treatment cannot be provided without it: which includes psychiatry, psychology, and social work. Even if you went to an emergency room, they need parental consent to treat you. If you were in a life and death emergency they would treat you but would try to do as little as possible until a parent can sign consent. This is how our healthcare system works, for better and for worse.
Many, perhaps most, school counselors do not have much training in this, so I understand your comment that they’re not worth much. Perhaps someone can help you to speak with your parents to help them understand the value of letting you speak with a therapist.
September 4th, 2010 at 1:03 pm
excellent question!
I would like to know the answer as well.
It will save many young people’s lives.
September 4th, 2010 at 1:03 pm
I’m not sure of the legal aspects and permissions regarding this, but I would suggest looking online, in your local phone book, or calling a local community information number and look for an organization that has "youth and family services" or something similar in the title. Just call, explain your situation, and they should be able to either help you, or guide you in the right direction as far as what your options are.