Psychotherapy Services for Minors

Recognizing the paramount importance of children's well-being, Code-4 Counseling adheres to Colorado's comprehensive regulations regarding the mental health of minors. These guidelines ensure that the care provided to young individuals is not only effective but also ethically sound and legally compliant.

Under state law, a mental health professional may provide outpatient psychotherapy services to a minor who is aged 12 or older without the consent or notification of a parent or guardian if he or she is voluntarily seeking such services and the provision of such services is clinically indicated. Minors may also consent to receive medical treatment for a substance use disorder without the consent or notification of a parent or guardian. 

The consent of the parent or guardian is only required in the following circumstances:

  1. The provider believes the minor cannot manage his or her care, but the provider should discuss and encourage notifying the minor’s parent or guardian.

  2. With the minor’s consent and if determined not to be detrimental to treatment.

  3. If the minor communicates an intent to commit suicide, the provider shall notify the parent or guardian. (Source)

For additional information, you can read the Colorado Revised Statute § 12-245-203.5

So… what does that mean?

For Parents and Guardians: Understanding the Intake Process

  • Self-Managed Intake: Code-4 Counseling empowers young clients aged 12 to 17 to take an active role in their mental health journey. The protocol requires these adolescents to complete their intake paperwork themselves, fostering a sense of ownership and responsibility over their therapeutic process.

  • Email Requirement: An email address is necessary to facilitate the electronic completion of intake documents. If an adolescent client does not possess an email address, accommodations are made for the paperwork to be completed in person, with the therapist present to guide them.

  • Parental Non-Intervention: In line with Colorado's guidelines, parents cannot submit intake paperwork for their children within the 12-17 age bracket. This measure is designed to respect the developing autonomy and privacy of the adolescent. If the minor would prefer for a parent or guardian to be involved in their care in any capacity, the counselor can assist the minor in signing a release of information that allows communication between the counselor and parent/guardian to the extent that the minor consents to.

  • Counselor Guidance: Understanding that this process may be new to younger clients, Code-4 counselors are prepared to explain the intake procedure thoroughly. They ensure that the adolescent comprehends each step and feels comfortable in managing their part of the process. Assessing Capability: The principle of self-managed intake hinges on the adolescent's capability to understand and engage in their care. If it's determined that a young client cannot manage their own care effectively, the standard protocol is adjusted accordingly, always prioritizing the client's best interest and compliance with state regulations.

Navigating the complex psychological landscape that first responders and their families inhabit requires a nuanced approach to therapy, and specialized care for the children of these community heroes is even more distinctive. Code-4 Counseling prides itself on offering this rare and invaluable service.


For First Responder Families Seeking Child Counseling Services:

  • Unique Expertise: At Code-4 Counseling, we recognize the specific challenges that the children of first responders may face. We offer the expertise of counselors who are not only well-versed in child psychology but also deeply familiar with the first responder culture.

  • Limited Availability: The intersection of these two specialized areas within psychology means that availability is inherently limited. We can accommodate some families directly, but spots are highly sought after and, therefore, not always immediately available.

  • Waitlist Option: Should our specialized services for children of first responders be at capacity, we offer the option to join a waitlist. While we cannot predict the exact time frame your adolescent will be seen by one of our providers, we value your interest and aim to provide these services as they become available. Suppose the waitlist for adolescents becomes excessively long and surpasses the capacity of Code-4 Counseling. In that case, we must redirect incoming requests to an alternative provider to ensure timely and effective support.

  • Alternative Providers: Understanding the immediate needs that your child may have, we are also prepared to recommend other trusted providers. While they may not share the same depth of experience in first responder family dynamics, they are respected professionals whom we trust to deliver quality care.

Continued Support: Regardless of whether you choose to wait for an opening or seek services elsewhere, Code-4 Counseling remains committed to supporting your family. We can assist in facilitating connections with external providers and remain a resource for any questions or concerns you may have.