Understanding Informed Consent in Therapy

Written by Tretbar Therapy

Updated 2 weeks ago

At Tretbar Therapy, we believe that a strong therapeutic relationship is built on trust, transparency, and collaboration. A key part of this foundation is the process of informed consent. This article explains what informed consent means in the context of therapy, why it's important, and what topics are typically covered.

What is Informed Consent?

Informed consent is an ethical and legal principle that means you, as the client, have the right to receive adequate information about the proposed therapy services so you can make a knowledgeable and voluntary decision about participating. It's an ongoing dialogue between you and your therapist, not just a one-time form.

The goal of informed consent is to ensure you understand:

• The nature of the therapy being offered.
• The potential benefits and risks involved.
• Alternative treatment options (if applicable).
• Your rights and responsibilities as a client.
• The policies and procedures of the practice.

This process empowers you to be an active participant in your own care.

Why is Informed Consent Important?

Informed consent is crucial because it:

• Respects Your Autonomy: Upholds your right to make decisions about your own health and treatment.
• Promotes Collaboration: Fosters a partnership between you and your therapist.
• Sets Clear Expectations: Helps you understand what to expect from therapy and from our practice.
• Reduces Misunderstandings: Clarifies roles, responsibilities, and the therapeutic process.
• Builds Trust: Demonstrates transparency and our commitment to your well-being.
• Meets Ethical and Legal Standards: Adheres to professional guidelines and legal requirements.

What is Typically Covered in Informed Consent?

While the specific details may be presented in an initial document (often called a "Consent for Treatment" or "Disclosure Statement"), your therapist will also discuss these aspects with you. Key areas typically include:

1. About Your Therapist: Their qualifications, licensure (e.g., LMFT in Kansas), and therapeutic approach or orientation.
2. Nature of Therapy: What therapy involves, the types of issues that can be addressed, and the general process (e.g., talk therapy, specific modalities that might be used).
3. Potential Benefits: What you might gain from therapy (e.g., improved coping skills, better relationships, symptom reduction, personal growth).
4. Potential Risks: Possible uncomfortable feelings or challenges that can arise during therapy (e.g., experiencing difficult emotions, relationship changes as you grow).
5. Alternatives to Therapy: Brief mention that other forms of support or treatment might exist (though this is often more detailed if a specific diagnosis warrants discussion of varied treatment modalities).
6. Confidentiality and Its Limits: A detailed explanation of how your information is kept private and the specific circumstances under which confidentiality may be broken. (See: Understanding Confidentiality in Therapy).
7. Appointments and Cancellations: Policies regarding session length, frequency, scheduling, and cancellation/no-show fees. (See: Fees & Payment Policies).
8. Fees and Payment: Information about session fees, accepted payment methods, and insurance/superbill procedures. (See: Billing, Fees & Insurance).
9. Emergency Procedures: What to do in case of a crisis or emergency outside of session times. (See: Crisis & Emergency Support).
10. Communication Between Sessions: Policies regarding contact with your therapist outside of scheduled appointments.
11. Record Keeping: How your therapy records are maintained and protected.
12. Client Rights: Your right to participate in treatment planning, ask questions, seek a second opinion, and terminate therapy.
13. Use of Technology/Telehealth (if applicable): Consent for using telehealth platforms, and any associated privacy considerations. (See: Client Portal & Technology section).
14. Consent for Treatment of Minors (if applicable): Procedures for parental/guardian consent and assent from the minor.

This information is typically provided to you in writing (often as part of your initial intake paperwork) and your therapist will be happy to review it with you and answer any questions you have before you begin services.

Your Role in Informed Consent

As a client, your role is to:

• Read any provided consent documents carefully.
• Ask questions about anything you don't understand.
• Freely discuss any concerns you have with your therapist.
• Understand that consent is voluntary and can be withdrawn.

Our commitment at Tretbar Therapy is to ensure you feel fully informed and comfortable as you begin and continue your therapy journey. Informed consent is a vital part of that commitment. If you have any questions about this process, please don't hesitate to ask.