[sw76]

Today, i was in session with my counsellor/therapist and confided in them about how my mother has occasionally hit me when we argue. They mentioned how in certain circumstances, she would have to report it to child services, but as i am 17, it would be difficult. At the time, i didn't give this much thought, but now i'm panicking (and have panic disorder) about whether child services are going to turn up at my door. Is it a good idea to try and ring them tomorrow? I really don't think my situation is so severe that CPS needs to get involved and i think it would only ruin my relationships with my parents and any trust between us. Any advice would be helpful, i'm stressing out!

[alimak]

I don't know about the law in england but typically if they felt you were in danger they wouldn't send you home.

Originally Posted by sw76

Today, i was in session with my counsellor/therapist and confided in them about how my mother has occasionally hit me when we argue. They mentioned how in certain circumstances, she would have to report it to child services, but as i am 17, it would be difficult. At the time, i didn't give this much thought, but now i'm panicking (and have panic disorder) about whether child services are going to turn up at my door. Is it a good idea to try and ring them tomorrow? I really don't think my situation is so severe that CPS needs to get involved and i think it would only ruin my relationships with my parents and any trust between us. Any advice would be helpful, i'm stressing out!

I wouldn't push the issue to much. Did the therapist seem concerned? The issue with pushing the problem and freaking out about it, it may give them cause for concern. Are you concerned about the hitting? If you are concerned about it and its having a negative effect on you, then you may let justice do its work. But always remember that if CPS were to show up at your door, you do have some say in the situation

[pegasus]

Hello sw76, your therapist was a bit vague as to whether she was going to report it or not. I would give your therapist a ring and ask her what she is going to do. These days if social services are alerted they don't pull a child out of the family home, they would work with the family to resolve it. If you are in danger, it needs to be sorted. The fact that you are in therapy means that you are already in the system and everyone will be working on your side. Please try not to stress about it, give your therapist a ring if you need reassurance.

[amandalouise]

sw76 I dont know about england but here in New York USA we have mandated reporting laws that state professionals working in any way with minors (anyone under the age of 18) who suspects or knows of abuse of that minor must make a suspected report of abuse to child protective services. what that means is if you were here where I live and work yes the treatment provider would have to report what they know or suspect and it would not fall under any confidentiality rules or ethics breach. of confidentiality. Here where I live treatment providers must fully inform a client f their rights responsibilities and what things must be reported, usually this is a handout given on the first therapy session or intake session

my suggestion is talk with your treatment provider, let them know you need clarification on what the laws are and what things (child abuse, suicidal behavior, self injury behavior, ......) that they may need to report to authorities (police, child or adult protective services.....) this way you will be fully informed.

[sw76]

Thanks for all your help! I've cleared it all up with them now but you provided some relief

[avlady]

i am happy for you that it all worked out!!!!!