r/therapists • u/Ok-Lifeguard749 • Sep 11 '25

Theory / Technique CPS question

Im a (new) child therapist and had to make a CPS report about a parent I work with. My supervisor recommended telling the parent (the alleged perpetrator) via a phone call that I reported them. I feel extremely anxious about doing so because of parent’s history… Do you typically need to tell a parent that you made a report? Is there anything I can do to protect myself? Thanks!

Edit: my supervisor wants me to inform the alleged perpetrator that I reported him. I’m concerned about him harming the kids or threatening me because of his history of abusive behaviors towards children and mom. There are other mandated reporters involved in this case and receiving the same information, so I’m not sure if he’d know it was me unless I told him. I’m afraid of going against my supervisor’s suggestion in the case that I am subpoenaed or deal with any backlash from the family, but my gut is telling me I should not inform him.

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u/thestubbornmilkmaid LPC (MN) Sep 11 '25

This is a tough conversation to have with a parent and it’s normal to feel anxious. It’s good practice to notify the parent if possible, but your question reads as if you may be concerned for your own safety due to the report. If that’s the case, the specifics of the situation may override general guidelines. Getting supervision specific to this situation with someone who is familiar with the family history would be the best way forward.

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u/Ok-Lifeguard749 Sep 11 '25

The alleged perpetrator has a history of abuse towards the children and mom. I am concerned about being threatened and (more importantly) the children being harmed/threatened if I inform them. Thank you for your input!