California RDH Law and Ethics Exam Complete Practice Test

The requirement to obtain consent for treating a minor in a telehealth setting hinges on recognizing the specific context of the therapeutic relationship and the nature of the therapy provided. When a therapist is providing individual telehealth therapy to a 17-year-old, they are operating under laws that often require the minor's individual consent, especially as they approach the age of majority.

In California, minors aged 12 and older can consent to their own mental health treatment without needing parental permission for certain services, under certain conditions. This aligns with the understanding that as minors grow older, they gain more autonomy over their healthcare decisions, particularly in mental health contexts. The overriding principle is that the minor has the capacity to understand the treatment process and make informed choices about their therapy.

In this instance, if the patient transitions from family therapy to individual therapy, obtaining consent specific to that context is essential. The autonomy of the 17-year-old in making decisions about their therapy becomes especially relevant when shifting the nature of treatment to individual sessions.

It’s important to stay informed on the nuances of telehealth regulations and consent requirements in your specific practice area, as these rules can vary by state and over time.