Parental Consent for Treatment

In accordance with New York State law, individuals under the age of 18 require parental or legal guardian consent to receive medical care. At Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS), students under 18 must have a signed Informed Consent for Treatment from a parent or legal guardian before receiving any mental health services. This consent may be withdrawn at any time by the parent or guardian, provided it is submitted in writing.

In the event of an emergency, crisis intervention services will be provided immediately, with every effort made to contact the parent or guardian as soon as possible.

Exceptions to Parental Consent

If the following conditions are met, mental health treatment may be provided to minors without parental or legal guardian consent:

1. The minor is knowingly and voluntarily seeking counseling.
2. Treatment is clinically appropriate and necessary for the minor’s well-being.
3. One or more of the following apply:
   • • The parent or guardian is not reasonably available.
   • Involving the parent or guardian would have a detrimental impact on the minor’s care.
   • Parental consent has been denied, and treatment is deemed essential and in the minor's best interest.

Note: Parental or guardian consent is always required for psychiatric services, including medication evaluation and management.