Final answer:
The therapist should seek informed consent, respecting the mature minor's decision while considering parental rights and legal guidelines. Patient confidentiality and protection from harm are critical, and the balance between these factors is key.
Step-by-step explanation:
In the case of a mature 13-year-old minor who can consent to treatment and maintains a good relationship with their parents, a therapist should first seek informed consent. This involves discussing the situation with the minor and possibly with the minor's parents, considering the importance of confidentiality, the protection from personal harm, and the respect for the patient's privacy and dignity. It's essential to balance the legal and ethical considerations, as parents can provide consent on behalf of their children, but children have rights that must be honoured in the healthcare setting.
When dealing with sensitive issues such as sexual behavior or health, adolescents may prioritize confidentiality to avoid disclosing information to their parents. In such scenarios, healthcare providers must navigate the complex interplay between maintaining patient confidentiality and the parents' right to be informed about their child's health. The laws pertaining to minors' consent to healthcare services vary by jurisdiction and must be considered before proceeding.