What is the age of consent for mental health treatment in Colorado?

In Colorado, the age of consent for mental health treatment is established as 15 years old. This means that individuals who are 15 and older can seek mental health services without needing parental consent. This provision acknowledges the importance of allowing adolescents the autonomy to seek help for their mental health needs, recognizing their capacity to understand the implications and benefits of treatment.

Younger individuals, particularly those under the age of 15, may still be able to access mental health services, but they typically require parental consent or involvement. This age threshold is designed to balance the rights of minors to make health care decisions with the responsibility of parents or guardians to be informed about their child's treatment when they are younger.

Understanding this aspect of Colorado law is crucial for mental health professionals and those working with adolescents, as it influences the approach to treatment and the dynamics of consent in therapeutic relationships.