What must a therapist document if they decide not to involve a minor's parents in treatment?

The requirement for documenting the reasons for not contacting the parents when a therapist decides not to involve a minor's parents in treatment is essential for several reasons. Firstly, documentation serves to provide a clear rationale for the decision, which can be particularly important in legal and ethical contexts. This ensures that the therapist can demonstrate that the decision was made with careful consideration, respecting the minor's autonomy and best interests while also adhering to ethical guidelines.

Secondly, documenting these reasons helps protect the therapist and the therapeutic process in case of future inquiries or audits. It illustrates that the therapist has considered the implications of their decision, such as the potential impact on the minor's wellbeing and safety. This level of transparency is crucial for maintaining professional accountability.

While other options may also seem relevant to a therapist's practice, they do not hold the same weight in the context of justifying the decision to exclude parental involvement. Therefore, having a clear record of the reasons for not contacting the parents becomes a critical component of ethical practice in therapy with minors.