Discipleship Counseling Disclaimer for Minors (Ages 5–17)

Thank you for entrusting us with your child’s spiritual and emotional growth. As with other faith-based pastoral care ministries, our discipleship counseling is grounded in biblical truth and centered on heart-level transformation through Christ. We do not offer clinical mental health services such as diagnosis, treatment plans, or psychotherapy, and are not governed by HIPAA or state counseling licensure laws.

This allows us the freedom to offer distinctly faith-based care—integrating Scripture, prayer, and spiritual identity into the counseling process without restriction. We believe this approach provides deep, lasting hope and healing through the redemptive power of Christ.

Our practices are informed by the ethical standards of the American Association of Christian Counselors (AACC), particularly those related to the care of minors, informed consent, and mandatory reporting. We are committed to transparency, integrity, and protection of the families we serve.

🧑‍⚖️ Parental Rights

Parents or legal guardians:

• Have the right to schedule, consent to, and discontinue a child’s participation at any time.
• May request general updates on their child’s progress or participation.
• Are encouraged to participate in the healing process through separate parent or family sessions, as appropriate.

To foster openness and trust—especially with older children and teens—we may not disclose every detail shared in sessions. However, we will involve parents when it serves the child’s emotional or spiritual well-being and always strive to keep communication open and supportive.

⚠️ Mandatory Reporting

In accordance with Texas law, we are mandatory reporters. This means we are legally required to report any suspected:

• Abuse (physical, emotional, or sexual)
• Neglect or abandonment
• Exploitation
• Threats of harm to self or others

These reports will be made to the appropriate authorities, regardless of parental or child consent.

🤝 Ethical Best Practices

Though not a clinical service, we maintain high standards of care, including:

• Providing age-appropriate, grace-based spiritual support
• Maintaining confidentiality within ethical and legal boundaries
• Communicating clearly with parents while respecting the child’s developmental needs
• Referring to licensed professionals if clinical care becomes necessary

If you have questions about our approach or this disclaimer, we welcome your inquiry. It’s our honor to support your family with compassion, clarity, and Christ-centered care.