Suicide or homicide ideation, threat, or intent must be documented with appropriate responses, including all attempts to protect the client as well as intended victims. Any child abuse and neglect disclosures must be documented and reported to the appropriate authorities. Any problems or confusion generated by the abuse or neglect are also dealt with. This chart is useful to help the client understand the intergenerational aspects of child abuse and neglect and helps the client acknowledge helpful or problematic familial relationships. This approach is particularly useful with clients who feel alienated or different from their peers or who have isolated their feelings as well as clients who would benefit from learning more positive and productive ways for interacting with others.
Immunity is provided as long as the report is made in good faith.
Frequently, medical, mental health, and other community providers are involved in assisting in the initial assessment. There are penalties for failing to report suspected abuse and neglect. Most professionals are protected from liability if they make a report that is unfounded after investigation as long as the report was made in the best interest of the child. These teams may also be designated by different names, including child protection teams, interdisciplinary teams, or case consultation teams. Some tools useful for play therapy include dolls, dishes and imaginary food, baby bottles, blankets, trucks and cars, action figures, and doctor's kits.