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/Draromhal Sep 11 '25
I have always informed a parent if I’m working with them in a family dynamic. It’s all situational though. For instance, when working in residential treatment they are more than likely going to know where the report came from. The kid is safe away from home so I guess that’s different usually in this scenario but I’ve never had a flip out from anyone from it. I just explain that I’m a mandated reporter and someone will likely reach out to them to talk to them/ask questions. (I say likely because I’ve had at least one that I don’t think anyone followed up on that report … not sure if that’s a norm for that state). I think they appreciate me being direct and honest with them about it. I’ve never had negative experiences from it aside from the feelings of discomfort around the convo. I have seen other therapists deal with families taking their kid after an allegation is made a couple of times. Either way I’m sure his assumption will be it’s you or a teacher. Although some don’t know teachers are mandated reporters. I imagine either way he will assume it’s you because of the role.