Mandated reporters are typically professionals who work with children or vulnerable populations. This includes social workers, mental health professionals, child care providers, therapists and more. This also includes trainees and interns. Everyone at Droste is a Mandated Reporter while they are acting in their professional capacity. You are not obligated to be a mandated reporter in your personal life as you may not have the necessary information to make a report.

Types of abuse must be reported like any physical abuse, sexual abuse, emotional abuse, and neglect. The person must have a reasonable suspicion based on their professional judgement such as signs and symptoms observed during sessions that suggest neglect or abuse. There does not need to be direct disclosure, but if there is, it is required that the clinician reports immediately even if they are not sure the disclosure is the truth.

Additionally, some people mistakenly think they are only Mandated Reporters if their client is the one being abused. Mandated reporting responsibilities extend to any child so you may be required to make a report if, for instance, your adult client discloses information indicating they are abusing or neglecting a child in their life or, if they know of a child in their life who is being abused. This is why it is crucial to discuss mandated reporting requirements with every client, regardless of age or parenting status.

In New York, reports of interpersonal violence only becomes a mandated report if a child is witnessing or involved in the interpersonal violence.

Therapists are typically required to make immediate verbal reports to child protective services or adult protective services. If neither of these options are suitable the therapist can make a call to local law enforcement. A written follow up is necessary within 24-48 hours of the initial verbal report. You should report to the Mandated Reporter Hotline at 1(800) 635-1522. Mandated Reporters cannot make an anonymous report. A written follow-up must be completed with LDSS.

An executive at Droste should be contacted when a mandated report is filed; however, prior permission is not required.

Reports should include the name and contact information of the individual at risk. There should be details about the suspected abuse or neglect and what lead you to make this report. As much information as you have about the alleged reporter should also be included. The clinician’s name and contact should also be included in this report.

The name of the individual who makes the report is kept confidential however Droste encourages you to let your client or their parent know if you are going to be making a report. While people are often angry, this gives you the opportunity to support the family through the process and to directly discuss your concerns.

It is important to note that mandated reporters are immune from civil or criminal liability as long as a report is made in good faith. However, failure to report any suspected abuse can lead to penalties, loss of licensure, and in some cases, criminal charges.

Yes, New York State requires mandated reporters like therapists to continue their education in mandated reporting as part of their licensure requirements. Licensed social workers and other mental health practitioners must complete 36 hours of continuing education during each three-year registration period. New York State Mandated Reporter Resource offers more information for mandated reporters in New York. Here is a link to the most updated required Mandated Reporter training (as of 2024 all professional in New York are required to re-do Mandated Reporter training that may have been previously completed).

New York State Mandated Reporter Resource Center, National Association of Social Workers, American Psychological Association, National Child Abuse Hotline.