Can minors consent to mental health treatment in California?

Yes, minors who are at least 12 years old in California can consent to treatment under AB 665 if the mental health practitioner believes that the minor is mature enough to participate intelligently in the outpatient services.

What is parent consent vs minor consent for mental health in California?

If an adolescent is at least 12 years old and is deemed mature enough to participate in outpatient mental health counseling, they can consent to treatment. If the child is under 12, or if the practitioner does not believe the minor can intelligently participate, parental or guardian consent is required.

What is confidential mental health care for minors?

Confidential mental health care for minors allows children who are at least 12 years old to seek therapy privately, often without initial parental involvement, although confidentiality may be broken if there is a risk of harm to the minor or others.

Are there other California youth mental health consent laws?

The page notes that AB 665 is tied to Section 6924 of the Family Code and that Section 124260 of the Health and Safety Code also states that adolescents 12 and over can consent to outpatient mental health therapy and counseling services.