If your therapist is required by law to make a report to Child Protective Services (CPS) due to mandatory reporting laws, they are legally obligated to do so regardless of your permission. Mandatory reporting laws vary by jurisdiction, but they typically require certain professionals, including therapists, to report suspected cases of child abuse or neglect to the appropriate authorities.
As a client, you cannot prevent your therapist from making a report when it falls under mandatory reporting requirements. The purpose of these laws is to protect the safety and well-being of children who may be at risk of harm.
If your therapist is asking for your permission, it might be out of courtesy or to inform you of their legal obligation. They may want to discuss the reporting process with you or explain why they need to make the report. However, it is crucial to understand that your consent is not a determining factor in whether they report or not when it comes to mandatory reporting.
If your therapist believes that there is reasonable cause to suspect child abuse or neglect, they must make the report as required by law. This is to ensure the safety and welfare of the child involved. Even if the report is made, it doesn't necessarily mean that allegations are confirmed, but it initiates an investigation by CPS to ensure the child's safety.
It's important to cooperate with your therapist and understand that they are acting in accordance with their legal and ethical obligations. If you have concerns or questions about the reporting process, you can discuss them with your therapist to gain clarity and better understand the situation. Remember that the primary goal is to protect vulnerable children from potential harm.