Can my teen start counselling without my consent?

Your teen is choosing to face what's happening in their life, and that takes real strength. Reaching out for counselling shows determination, self-awareness and the courage to tackle challenges head on.

Yes. At Discovery Family Therapy, teenagers aged 13 to 17 can start counselling, also called therapy, without a parent's consent. Counselling goes ahead with your teen's own agreement. You still have a valuable role in supporting them.

At a glance

At what age can my child see a counsellor without my consent?

• At Discovery Family Therapy: From 13. Teenagers aged 13 to 17 can start counselling on their own.
• In Australian law: There's no set age. In Australia, each young person is considered individually, based on whether they understand what counselling involves.
• Children aged 12 and under: Counselling begins with one parent's consent.

Why does your teen get to decide?

Choosing counselling is a decision your teen has made for themselves. It reflects growing maturity, independence and a commitment to their own wellbeing.

Australian law recognises that a young person who understands what counselling involves can make this decision themselves. WA Health guidance describes this as a decision a young person can make whether or not a parent agrees.

How is your teen's understanding considered?

• No set age: In Australia, each young person is considered individually.
• This decision: What matters is whether your teen understands what counselling involves.
• Growing with them: Your teen's ability to make decisions is reviewed as they develop.
• The first conversation: Your teen's counsellor talks with them about what counselling involves, what it's for, and what stays private.

When your teen tells you

Telling you about counselling is another brave step. It shows your teen trusts you with something that matters to them.

• Recognise their courage: Let them know you see the strength it took to reach out.
• Keep your response calm and warm: Your teen needs to know you're on their side.
• Leave the details with them: Don't ask why, or what they'll talk about. Those are theirs to share, if and when they're ready.
• Ask how you can help: They might want a lift to appointments, a quiet space at home for online sessions, or simply no fuss.
• Reassure them: Seeking support doesn't change anything between you.

Do I still have a say as a parent?

Yes. Your teen's right to choose counselling sits alongside your role as a parent. It doesn't replace it.

• Parental responsibility: Each parent keeps parental responsibility for a child under 18, including after separation.
• Court orders: If there are court orders about your teen, please send us a copy.

Can I stop my teen's counselling?

Counselling is built on your teen's own agreement, and their choice deserves respect. If you have concerns, we encourage you to share them with us. If you'd like to understand your legal options, a family lawyer can explain them.

Can I share my concerns with the counsellor?

Yes. You know your teen well, and your perspective is valued.

• Contact us: You're welcome to share concerns or information you think could help your teen's counselling.
• What to expect: Your teen's privacy still applies, so we won't share what they say in session in return.
• Your teen's space: There are no routine parent sessions. If your teen asks for a parent or family appointment and agrees to us contacting you, we can arrange one.

What stays private?

Your teen's sessions are a protected space. What they share isn't passed on to either parent unless your teen agrees.

That privacy matters. Young people are more likely to ask for help, and to keep coming back, when they know what they say is kept confidential.

Your teen learns about the limits to privacy in their first session. Information can be shared:

• Safety: if someone is at risk of serious harm
• The law: if the law requires it, for example in court proceedings

Our Children's Confidentiality Policy sets out the full detail.

Will I be told if my teen is at risk?

Your teen's safety comes first. If someone is at risk of serious harm, information is shared with your teen's identified safe person and, where required, the appropriate authorities under mandatory reporting guidelines. Only what's needed to restore safety is shared and, where it's safe, both your teen and you are told.

Can I see my teen's counselling records?

Your teen's counselling records are released through a subpoena. A family lawyer can explain how this process works.

How can I support my teen?

• Celebrate their determination: Choosing to work through challenges is something to be proud of.
• Trust their pace: Let them share as much or as little as they like, when they're ready.
• Stay close: Ordinary time together, without questions about counselling, keeps your connection strong.
• Back their independence: Supporting their choice shows you believe in their ability to look after themselves.
• Speak up about safety: If you're worried about your teen's safety, contact us directly.

This page is general information only and isn't legal advice. For advice about your situation, speak with a family lawyer.