The Ethical Realities of Reporting Suspicions of Child Maltreatment

Protecting Children &Supporting Families

Mental and Behavioral Health Professionals throughout the United States are

mandated reporters of suspected child maltreatment. However, our legal

requirement to report is often confusing to navigate in relation to our other

professional and ethical responsibilities. This workshop is intended for mental

and behavioral health who already have a basic understanding of their

obligations as mandated reporters, and want to explore areas that are

complicated by our professional relationships with clients in light of our legal

obligations. Specifically, we will explore informed consent practices with different

client populations, supporting practice with clients after making a report, and

how to work with child protective services, especially in light of concerns for

racial and social justice in the child welfare system.