Informed Consent Requirements for Therapists in Ohio (OH)

Overview

Mental health professionals practicing in Ohio must provide informed consent before initiating treatment. This page summarizes the key requirements under Ohio Rev. Code § 4732.01 et seq., including minor consent rules, mandatory reporting obligations, and telehealth consent requirements.

Informed Consent Requirements in Ohio

• Psychologist's license type, number, and professional qualifications
• Description of treatment goals, methods, and anticipated duration
• Confidentiality rights and exceptions under Ohio law
• Fee schedule, payment arrangements, and insurance procedures
• Client's right to access records and complaint procedures with the State Board of Psychology

Governing Statute

Ohio Rev. Code § 4732.01 et seq.

Minor Consent for Mental Health Treatment

Age of consent for minors: 14 years old in Ohio.

Minors age 14 and older may consent to outpatient mental health treatment in Ohio. General age of consent for medical treatment is 18.

Mandatory Reporting Requirements

Governing law: Ohio Rev. Code § 2151.421

Psychologists are mandatory reporters. Must report suspected child abuse or neglect to the public children services agency or a municipal or county peace officer.

Telehealth Consent in Ohio

Separate telehealth consent required: Yes.

Informed consent for telehealth must be obtained and documented. Must cover telehealth-specific risks and limitations.

Modality requirements: Video-based synchronous telehealth is the standard. Audio-only is permitted when video is not available or clinically appropriate.

PSYPACT member: Yes — Ohio participates in PSYPACT, allowing licensed psychologists from other PSYPACT states to provide telehealth services to clients in Ohio.

PSYPACT member state. Non-PSYPACT providers must hold an Ohio license.