What is meant by "informed consent" in psychological treatment?

Informed consent in psychological treatment refers to the process through which clients are fully educated about their treatment options, including potential risks, benefits, and alternatives. This means that prior to beginning any therapeutic intervention, clients receive comprehensive information that allows them to make sound decisions regarding their treatment.

When clients are fully aware of treatment risks and benefits, it empowers them to engage in their own care actively. This level of awareness and understanding is crucial because it fosters trust between the clinician and the client and respects the autonomy of the client to make informed choices about their mental health care.

This concept is foundational in mental health practice, ensuring that clients are not only passive recipients of care but active participants in the treatment process. It highlights the ethical obligation of mental health professionals to communicate transparently and to ensure that clients' rights to informed decision-making are upheld.