Child and Adolescent Therapy Intake
Guardian-completed therapy intake for minors in Swiss psychotherapy practices. Covers developmental history, school context, presenting concerns, and parental consent under ZGB Art. 296 and nFADP.
About this template
The Child and Adolescent Therapy Intake Form is completed by a parent or legal guardian before the first therapy session. It gives the therapist a comprehensive picture of the child's developmental background, family context, school situation, and the concerns that have prompted the referral. Designed for Swiss child and adolescent psychotherapy practices, the form incorporates a parental consent signature that satisfies the requirements of ZGB Art. 296 (parental authority) and the nFADP.
What this form collects
- Child's personal details and date of birth
- Guardian contact information and parental authority arrangement
- Developmental history (pregnancy, milestones, early childhood)
- School name, grade, and current academic situation
- Description of presenting concerns from the guardian's perspective
- Previous psychological or psychiatric treatment history
- Relevant medical diagnoses and current medication
- Family composition and significant life events
- Parental consent for therapy and data processing
Parental authority and confidentiality
Under ZGB Art. 296, both parents with joint parental authority must consent to psychological treatment for minors. Therapist confidentiality applies under Art. 321 StGB. Data is processed in accordance with the Swiss nFADP. In cases of suspected child endangerment, mandatory reporting obligations under cantonal law apply.
How to use this template
Use this template
Click 'Use template' to create a copy in your dashboard.
Add your practice details
Insert your practice name, canton, and any canton-specific consent language required.
Send to the parent or guardian
Share the form link with the parent or legal guardian prior to the intake appointment.
Verify parental authority
Before the first session, confirm that the consenting parent holds parental authority as required by ZGB Art. 296.
Child and adolescent therapy intake in Switzerland: a comprehensive guide
Child and adolescent psychotherapy is a specialised field in Switzerland with its own professional qualification pathway and legal framework. Practices providing therapy to minors face additional considerations around consent, confidentiality, and mandatory reporting that differ from adult therapy.
Who completes the intake form for a minor?
In Switzerland, parental authority is governed by ZGB Art. 296 et seq. Where parents hold joint parental authority, both parents must in principle consent to psychological treatment. Many Swiss practitioners require a signed consent from both parents or a court document confirming sole parental authority before commencing treatment.
What information is most important in a minor's intake?
For children and adolescents, the developmental history is particularly valuable. The therapist needs to understand whether developmental milestones were met on time, whether there were any birth complications, early separations, trauma, or significant medical history. The school context often provides crucial diagnostic context.
Confidentiality and disclosure for minors
Confidentiality in child and adolescent therapy is complex. While the therapist's duty of professional secrecy under Art. 321 StGB applies, parents have a right to information about their child's treatment. Many Swiss therapists negotiate a transparency agreement with the child and parents at the outset.
Mandatory reporting obligations
Swiss therapists working with minors are subject to cantonal mandatory reporting obligations where there is reasonable suspicion of child endangerment. These obligations override professional secrecy in defined circumstances.
Frequently asked questions
At what age can a child consent to therapy without parental consent?
Under Swiss law, the ability to consent increases gradually with age and maturity. There is no fixed statutory age for therapy consent. Many Swiss practitioners involve adolescents from around age 14 in the consent process alongside parents.
Can a single parent consent to therapy without the other parent's agreement?
Only if they hold sole parental authority. Where joint parental authority exists, both parents must consent. Practitioners should request documentation confirming the parental authority arrangement.