When a child resists mental health care, it’s natural for parents to feel concerned and overwhelmed. Many parents ask, “Can a parent force a child into recovery?” especially when their child’s well-being hangs in the balance. At HillsidesCares, we understand these struggles and are here to support families with compassionate guidance.
For California families seeking comprehensive and appropriate care, our Pasadena recovery center for adolescents offers evidence-based programs tailored to individual needs. HillsidesCares offers options to parents in California when their child refuses help, and promotes compassionate, comprehensive mental health care. Contact HillsidesCares today to learn more.
Understanding the legal framework in California
California law provides specific guidelines about when parents can initiate mental health treatment for their child. While every case is unique, there are important legal principles to be aware of when deciding how to proceed.
Age of consent for mental health treatment
The California Health and Safety Code (Section 124260) and Family Code (Section 6924) allow minors aged 12 and older to consent to their own residential or outpatient mental health treatment in California. This means they must agree to receive therapy or counseling.
When youth give their consent, they are more likely to feel engaged in the process—something that can lead to better treatment outcomes.
What about involuntary treatment for minors?
Parents or guardians generally cannot force children of this age group into treatment, unless their child poses a risk to themselves or others or cannot manage their basic needs due to mental illness. This legal process is governed by the California Welfare and Institutions Code (Section 5585). In these situations, the child would typically be placed in a psychiatric hospital rather than in a residential treatment program like HillsidesCares.
It’s vital to approach these situations with empathy. Even if their choices seem harmful, respecting your child’s independence may help create an open dialogue, rather than fueling resistance. Residential treatment facilities, like our center at HillsidesCares, also provide structured settings that allow for early intervention while respecting each child’s individual needs.
What steps can parents take?
If you’re wondering how to move forward, there are several supportive approaches you can consider:
- Have an open conversation. Talking calmly and openly about your concerns can lay the foundation for trust. Avoid placing blame or showing frustration; instead, focus on how mental health support can benefit their quality of life.
- Work with professionals. A skilled mental health professional can help guide initial conversations with your child while assessing their needs. This is often a useful first step to gaining their cooperation.
- Explore residential care options. When outpatient therapy doesn’t seem effective or is refused, a structured program like those at HillsidesCares provides a safe and supportive space for growth and change.
- Offer a visit or tour. Sometimes seeing the environment firsthand can help ease fears or misconceptions. HillsidesCares welcomes opportunities for youth to explore the space and get a feel for the supportive setting.
Professional behavioral healthcare professionals can best address mental health concerns for children. HillsidesCares offers a residential program, a partial hospitalization program (PHP), an intensive outpatient program (IOP), and additional aftercare support once treatment is completed.
Mental health treatment at HillsidesCares
At HillsidesCares, we combine evidence-based therapies with holistic approaches to support the unique needs of children and families. Our wide range of services is designed to promote healing, growth, and stronger connections.
- Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) for building healthy coping skills
- Family therapy and group therapy to foster relationships and community
- Mindfulness meditation therapy for experiential healing
- Psychotherapy tailored to personal needs
- Specialized PTSD and trauma therapy to address deep-rooted challenges in a safe, nurturing environment
In addition, our sprawling campus offers 17 acres with plenty of outdoor space for recreation and experiential therapies. Contact us today to learn more about our programs and services, verify insurance, or ask any questions.
Contact HillsidesCares today to take the next step
Deciding how to help your child can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone. HillsidesCares focuses on helping families determine the least restrictive, most effective care solutions for their children. Whether through outpatient counseling or residential programs at our Pasadena recovery center for adolescents, we work closely with families to create a path toward healing.
While the question, “Can a parent force a child into recovery?” has no one-size-fits-all answer, HillsidesCares can help you find answers that best fit your child’s situation. Together, we can build a plan that supports your child’s recovery and restores hope for the future.
Contact HillsidesCares at 323.641.4842 or reach out using our online contact form to begin the process of helping your child or adolescent heal and restore their mental health.