Informed Consent

Informed consent is a process in which a fully informed participant consents to be involved in a therapeutic activity or event. It originates from the ethical and legal right of an individual to direct what happens to their person, and from the ethical duty of other parties to involve the  individual in choices related to their well being and comfort. This basic right applies to everyone.

In order for an individuals consent to be valid, they must be considered to be competent and of a clear mind in order to make the decision to consent, and consent must voluntary. A delineation between hesitant and enthusiastic consent should be made. If consent is hesitant, it may mean those involved in the therapeutic activity may need to take more time, or forgo the activity altogether.

With respect to informed consent, all involved need to inform and disclose any limitations regarding the activity. This can be physical or mental barriers, triggers, or points of comfort. Any activity can be stopped at any time, for any reason. The key to proper and full informed consent is open and judgement-free communication. All involved need to recognize their own rights, as well as the right of others to decide what happens to their person.