Ask Jigsaw: Do I need parental consent?

Friday, 20 November 2020

I am a minor and I want to get professional help. but, in my current situation, I do not feel like I can go to my parents but I need parental consent to receive any form of treatment. Is there any way I’d be able to go about receiving treatment or counselling without my parents being involved or notified?

-a

Hi a,

Thanks for your question. We often hear from young people who feel that they can’t talk to their parents but are looking for support. So you are not on your own with this.

Clare

Jigsaw clinician

Most services will discuss what can remain confidential with you and your parents in advance of starting sessions.

Firstly, while under 18’s need parental consent to access most mental health services, this does not necessarily mean that parents need to know the details of what you are discussing. Most services will discuss what can remain confidential with you and your parents in advance of starting sessions. It is possible for parents to agree to you accessing mental health support without knowing the specifics of why.

However, there are benefits to them being aware of what is going on for you. If your parents know you’re struggling, even if they don’t know all the details, they can try to support you. Although it can be difficult to discuss, here are some tips here on how to ask for help.

‘In the moment’ support

Although it is different to ongoing counselling support, you can access ‘in the moment’ support through Jigsaw Live Chat. This service is anonymous and does not require parental consent.

I hope you find a way to get the right support for you a.

Take care,

Clare

Jigsaw clinician