What do you think about this crazy situation

[the_clockwork]

I had a client come in today, who is underage (under 18). They were very depressed and wanted to talk to someone (never mentioned suicidal). The persons parents do not allow them to see a counselor b/c they do not want to be labeled as the "crazy" family. Without parental consent I cannot see this client.. So I basically told this client I can't do anything for you and tough shit (in other words)

 

[blueta2]

what do you do?

 

[jerkbox]

the parents are basically idiots

 

[the_clockwork]

what do you do?

I am an LPC (Licensed Professional Counselor)

 

[the_clockwork]

the parents are basically idiots

ya what sucks for me is this person was at the age were a lot of people contemplate suicide but by law and for the safety of my job I can't do anything

 

[Cutiebaby]

I would say see him on the side without any one knowing or what not.But I know that you cannot.
Maybe you can contact his parents some how and explain to them that it is not making them look bad or weird etc to have their son talking to some one. Most children/pre teens/ teens need some one that they can talk to.Too many kids that do not have open communication with their parents these days, they need an outlet some how, some way.
Fuck the parents, they are probably what messed him up

 

[Cutiebaby]

Call the state on the parents!!! Yeah, Do it!

 

[nefertiti]

Why would you turn them away, no questions asked? Couldn't you at least try and get the parents to come in to talk to them about the potential severity of the consequences of their stance?

 

[jerkbox]

ya what sucks for me is this person was at the age were a lot of people contemplate suicide but by law and for the safety of my job I can't do anything

what about like a hotline kind of thing.....I know they are out there for teens in particular.

 

[gonelifting]

Websites, literature, books... point her in the right direction, at least...

Don't just point her to the door. Even if you can;t help, show her how to help herself. School counselor etc...

 

[nefertiti]

What gone said. You have to have a wealth of resources that don't require parental consent, including other counseling sources.

 

[blueta2]

I had a client come in today, who is underage (under 18). They were very depressed and wanted to talk to someone (never mentioned suicidal). The persons parents do not allow them to see a counselor b/c they do not want to be labeled as the "crazy" family. Without parental consent I cannot see this client.. So I basically told this client I can't do anything for you and tough shit (in other words)

You can contact their school (if they go to school) and let them know this person is depressed.
You can also try to convince the parents that there is nothing crazy about getting help or you can refer them to someone who is not a counselor but a social worker so there is less stigma attached.
Really, after this, there is nothing you can do. Your profession tells you to help, but sometimes you just have to walk away after you've done all that you can do.

 

[heatherrae]

Wow. That is awful. I would give her literature and explain to her that you would like to help but you are not allowed by law without parental consent.

 

[the_clockwork]

Websites, literature, books... point her in the right direction, at least...

Don't just point her to the door. Even if you can;t help, show her how to help herself. School counselor etc...

I gave them the 1-800 number


I can't see them on the side or I'd lose my license, hence the moral dilema.

I can not contact the parents either b/c I am not allow to try to sway parents in letting their child see me. Besides the brief time I spent w/ this kid they made it clear their parents are 100% against it and their relationship is non exsistant

 

[the_clockwork]

she wanted a private session.. the 1-800 numbers are not that helpful, believe it or not.. tlaking 1 on 1 w/ someone you trust and can confide in is something that could help you beyond your belief.

it sucks b/c my hands are tied other than the worthles 800 number, which is better than nothing I guess.. I also told the client to bring their parent/ guardian in and we can have a sit down and have everything confidential (insurance, neighbors, everything)