Your Rights, Your Voice: Why Informed Consent Matters in Mental Health Care with Scott Stolarick

In this episode, Dr. Margo Jacquot of The Juniper Center sits down with Scott Stolarick to break down the role of informed consent in mental health care—and why it’s so essential for creating a safe, supportive experience. Together, they explore what informed consent really means, how it empowers clients to understand their options, and why having a clear voice in their care can make all the difference. Listeners will learn how informed consent helps build trust, strengthen the therapeutic relationship, and ensure that care is collaborative rather than confusing or overwhelming. Whether you’re new to therapy or looking to better understand your rights as a client, this episode offers clarity, reassurance, and practical insight into how informed consent lays the foundation for meaningful, effective care.What You'll Learn:The role of informed consent in building trust and strengthening the therapeutic relationship Why informed consent is essential for creating a safe, respectful therapy experienceWhat informed consent means in the context of mental health careHow understanding your rights as a client can increase comfort and confidence in treatmentBio:Scott is a licensed, trauma-informed psychotherapist who has been practicing in the state of Illinois for 33 years. He is an experienced administrator and clinical supervisor as well as a seasoned clinician. Scott has Management and Leadership Certifications from the University of Notre Dame and Cornell University. Scott is currently the owner of Mosaic Pathway Counseling in Gurnee, Illinois. Throughout the years, Scott has provided successful treatment planning for depression, anxiety, anger management, sexual abuse (victims and perpetrators), sexual addiction, substance abuse, marital discord, and family conflict, just to name a few. He is also a polished public speaker and has provided a variety of clinical workshops at the local and state levels.Dr. Margo Jacquot is the award-winning founder and Chief Care Officer of The Juniper Center, one of the largest woman-owned counseling and therapy practices in the Chicago area. With over 20 years of experience, she specializes in trauma recovery, addiction treatment, and LGBTQ-affirming therapy. Dr. Jacquot is also the host of the "Mental Health Business Mentor" podcast, where she shares insights on running a successful mental health practice.Connect with Dr. Margo Jacquot:Website: thejunipercenter.comInstagram: @thejunipercenterFacebook: The Juniper Center