This is something that parents can find extremely frustrating, and this frustration is justifiable. Confidentiality laws are very strict and mental health professionals must follow them. Your child must agree before you can be involved in, or informed about, their treatment. Have conversations with your child and help them understand why you want, or need, to be informed about their care. If they resist, try to find limited areas where they would be comfortable having you involved. There are forms your child can sign that allow the health care professionals to share information with you. Thankfully, there is an ongoing shift in attitude within the mental health system. Parents are becoming more engaged and are beginning to be recognized as partners in service delivery. This is a gradual process, and one which takes more time for some than others. In the meantime, the law is clear that while mental health professionals cannot answer your questions or share information without your child’s permission, they can and should accept relevant input from you. Consider putting your thoughts or concerns in writing and dropping them off at the service provider’s office. Be aware that the health care professional may choose to share your input with your child.