Marriage and Family Therapists (MFT) Law and Ethics Practice Exam

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Study for the MFT Law and Ethics Exam. Prepare with flashcards and multiple choice questions, each question includes hints and explanations. Get ready for your exam!

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In California, what is the minimum age a minor must be to independently consent for treatment?

The correct answer is: 12

In California, minors aged 12 and older can independently consent to treatment for mental health care, which includes services provided by marriage and family therapists. This legal provision recognizes the evolving capacity of young individuals to make informed choices about their mental health. By allowing minors 12 and over to consent on their own, the law aims to support accessibility to mental health care for those who may be experiencing difficulties or crises and may be reluctant to involve their parents or guardians. Treatment consent is designed to empower adolescents to seek help for issues like anxiety, depression, or substance use, making them a critical age group for intervention. Moreover, while individuals younger than 12 may also receive mental health treatment, they do require consent from parents or guardians. Therefore, this law provides important boundaries and acknowledges the developmental stage where minors can begin to take responsibility for their own health care decisions, aligning with practices that promote autonomy in treatment.