Separated Families Policy
At Hampson Psychology, we are committed to providing the best possible care for children and young people, including those from separated families. This policy outlines our approach to managing the complexities that can arise in such situations, ensuring that the needs of our young clients remain the focal point of our services while adhering to legal and ethical standards.
1. Consent and Confidentiality
​Consent: For clients under 18 years of age, consent must be obtained from a parent or legal guardian. Psychologists will also ensure that the child’s wishes regarding participation in treatment are considered. Both parents’ involvement is preferred but not always legally required unless specified by court orders.
Confidentiality: Psychologists must balance the child’s privacy with the parent’s right to access information. Trust between the psychologist and child is crucial, so not all details shared by the child may be disclosed to parents. Parents will be informed of risks or concerns if the child is at risk of harm.
2. Parent Rights and Responsibilities
Initial Disclosure: To ensure effective care, please provide all relevant information about your family situation during the first appointment.
Responsibility: It is the parent’s responsibility to provide relevant legal documents or court orders pertaining to the child’s care.
Access and Involvement: Both parents or legal guardians can schedule appointments, attend sessions, and request copies of reports unless restricted by a court order. If one parent makes an appointment, it is their responsibility to inform the other parent and share relevant feedback.
Payment: Payment for services is required on the day of the appointment. If a legal agreement stipulates that one parent covers costs, the attending parent may be responsible for payment and seek reimbursement from the other parent.
3. Collaborative Communication and Care
Respectful Communication: We expect both parents to cooperate respectfully and communicate effectively about their child’s care. Joint decisions on significant treatments are encouraged. In cases of conflict, we may require court orders or consent from both parents and may pause or discontinue services if necessary.
Information Sharing: We encourage both parents to attend appointments to receive comprehensive updates. Clinic updates will be provided to the parent who attends the appointment, and it is their responsibility to forward this information to the other parent.
Feedback appointments: We are unable to provide information to any parent about their child’s health outside appointment times.
Conflict Resolution: Significant conflict may necessitate the provision of court orders or consent from both parents. In extreme cases, we may discharge a family from our services if conflict disrupts our ability to provide care.
4. Medico-Legal
Custody Assessments: We do not accept clients who are currently involved in legal decision-making regarding their children that require the Psychologist’s involvement.