I am not aware of any specific training or policy by the Hawaii Health Department instructing therapists to conceal conversations with LGBTQ+ youth from their parents. However, I can provide some general insights into the potential implications of such a situation:
Ethical Concerns: Concealing information from parents without their knowledge raises ethical questions. Therapists are bound by professional codes of ethics, which usually emphasize honesty, transparency, and the need to prioritize the welfare of their clients. Keeping parents uninformed about their child's therapy could be seen as a breach of trust and may undermine the therapeutic relationship.
Confidentiality and Privacy: Confidentiality is an essential aspect of therapy. Clients, including LGBTQ+ youth, need to trust that their discussions with their therapists will be kept confidential, with certain exceptions (such as mandated reporting in cases of harm to self or others). If confidentiality is compromised without a valid reason, it may deter young people from seeking help and hinder the therapeutic process.
Parent-Child Relationship: Concealing conversations may have unintended consequences for the parent-child relationship. Open communication between parents and their children is crucial, and withholding information could strain trust and create misunderstandings.
Legal and Regulatory Implications: Depending on the laws and regulations in a particular jurisdiction, therapists may have legal obligations regarding confidentiality and disclosure of information. Violating these laws could have serious legal repercussions for the therapist and the healthcare organization they work for.
Cultural Sensitivity: It's essential to consider the cultural context in which therapy is provided. Different cultures and communities may have varying attitudes toward LGBTQ+ issues, and therapists need to be sensitive to these factors while also maintaining professional standards.
Therapeutic Effectiveness: For therapy to be effective, it requires open and honest communication between the therapist, the client, and in some cases, the client's family. Concealing information might hinder the therapeutic process and prevent a comprehensive understanding of the client's needs.
If such a situation were to arise, it would be essential to understand the specific reasons behind the policy and to engage in open dialogue with all stakeholders, including therapists, LGBTQ+ youth, parents, and advocacy groups. Striking a balance between respecting the client's confidentiality and considering the welfare of the youth and the family is critical in these cases. It is also crucial to adhere to the relevant legal and ethical guidelines governing mental health practice.