Lawmakers propose allowing 16-year-old students to seek psychological counseling on their own

Students aged 16 and over could independently request school counseling, psychological assessment, psychological counseling and psychotherapy without their parents’ consent, under a bill currently being debated in the Senate.

The initiative amends legislation on health, patients’ rights and pre-university education. In schools, the bill provides that teenagers may approach school psychological and educational assistance offices directly. The authors argue that parental consent can become an obstacle when a parent refuses support, is unavailable or is themselves the source of the psychological distress.

The Economic and Social Council endorsed the bill and considers direct access to services appropriate, especially for students in rural areas and from vulnerable families. However, the council calls for the removal of the requirement to assess cognitive capacity before support is provided, saying it could create another barrier.

The bill maintains limits on confidentiality. Specialists would be required to notify parents and authorities in cases involving a risk of self-harm, violence, abuse or other serious situations. If adopted, the provision concerning schools would enter into force three days after the law is published.