Mandated Reporting Decision Making Framework: Updated for 2026

In this episode we explore findings from our survey research that explains the factors related to why professionals agree (or disagree) that mandated reporting complicates their professional relationships.

This episode explore factors in a survey of mandated reporters that help explain why professionals believe that CPS protects children and/or helps families.

This episode introduces a survey of 386 mandated reporters in the US conducted by our team of researchers. Kathryn discusses the survey and some of the initial findings related to the opinions of professionals about the policy of mandated reporting itself.

This episode introduces an updated decision making framework for mandated reporters to help guide the tough decision to make a call to CPS or not.

When I help mental health professionals evaluate concerns related to their own ethical practice, I often get asked: “What should I do if I’m not the one with an ethical problem, but my colleague is?” This episode will explore that question and provide practical advice on what considerations the professional should make for their responsive action.

Anonymous reports to CPS create numerous problems for families and the CPS system. This podcast explores the reasons for eliminating anonymous reporting as an option.

Clients of lawyers have an expectation that what they share with their lawyer will be held confidential to the highest standards. When a social worker works with that lawyer in support of that client's legal representation, is the social worker still a mandated reporter of suspected child abuse and neglect?This podcast explores this question and provides legal and ethical analysis to inform practitioners on how to make decisions on their obligations.

Boundary concerns for supervisors are particularly challenging because of the power dynamics; supervisors have considerable power over their supervisees.  When there are boundaries concerns the professional needs to carefully consider the implications, and make a decision that appropriately prioritizes certain roles. This episode helps supervisors best consider their response to boundary concerns.

There are limits to client confidentiality. One of those limits relates to situations where a therapist is concerned that their client might be a danger to themself or others. This podcast explores the "duty to protect/warn" and its limitations.

Contrary to popular belief, most states DO NOT have a law that defines the age that a child can be left home alone. Check out this podcast episode to find out about how to evaluate your concerns related to unsupervised kids.