top of page
Help Pennsylvania Children Thrive.
Half of all psychiatric illness occurs before age 14 and 75% by age 24. When a child is struggling, it is up to their parents to help their child manage, and ultimately, thrive. However, in the state of Pennsylvania, finding resources is a challenge.
You can make sure parents across PA know where to go to get their child the mental health support they need. You can be the immediate difference in helping a child thrive.
-
What does "inpatient treatment" mean?All mental health treatment that requires full-time or part-time residence in a facility that provides mental health treatment.
-
What makes inpatient treatment consent different?Once a child has been admitted to an inpatient treatment facility, either the parent or the child can request a hearing to determine if inpatient treatment is appropriate and necessary. The child will stay at the facility while the judge makes a ruling. This option does not apply to outpatient treatment.
-
What about parental disagreement to inpatient treatment?If a parent who has legal custody rights disagrees with the other parent about consent to a child's inpatient treatment, they can file a petition in the Court of Common Pleas, and a hearing will take place within 72 hours of the filing.
-
Who can consent to a minor receiving mental health treatment?1. Parents or legal guardians 2. A minor between the ages of 14–17
-
Can a parent refuse to allow treatment once a child (age 14–17) has consented?No
-
Can a child (age 14–17) refuse treatment once a parent has consented?No
-
What happens if a child (age 14–17) takes away their consent?The treatment will be stopped UNLESS a parent or legal guardian gives their consent; in that case the treatment will continue.
-
What about children under the age of 14?Parental consent is required for children under age 14 to receive mental health treatment.
-
Can a parent say no after another parent said yes?NO
bottom of page