Which of the following describes appropriate consent when conducting group counseling with minors?

• A. Obtaining consent from parents only.
• B. Obtaining child assent only.
• C. Obtain parental consent and child assent; explain limits; maintain group privacy.
• D. No consent needed.

Answer: (C)

In group counseling with minors, you must have both parental consent and the minor’s assent, and you should explain the limits of confidentiality and how group privacy will work. Parents hold legal authority to allow their child to participate, ensuring the activity complies with laws and policies. At the same time, the minor’s assent respects their developing autonomy and confirms they understand what participation involves and agree to join. In a group setting, it’s important to discuss what information will be shared within the group, what cannot be kept private (like safety concerns or mandated reporting), and how confidentiality applies to interactions among group members. This combination protects the child, respects family authority, and supports ethical practice.

Choosing only parental consent leaves out the child’s opportunity to express willingness or concerns, and relying on assent alone ignores the parent’s legal role and responsibility to authorize participation. Saying no consent is needed would be unethical and unlawful. Together, parental consent and child assent with clear limits and privacy expectations best support safe, respectful, and compliant group counseling with minors.