Mental Health Practice

Guidelines for Child Welfare

By the Annie E. Casey Foundation, Casey Family Programs, The REACH Institute

April 1, 2009

Summary

This publication shares guidelines for improving the behavioral health of youth in state custody. Child welfare experts, behavioral health leaders, and child and youth advocates developed this guidance as part of a 2-day conference convened by the Annie E. Casey Foundation, Casey Family Programs and The REACH Institute.

Table of Contents

Key Takeaway

Introducing 32 research-driven ideas for improving the behavioral health of youth in child welfare

This report arms child welfare workers and agencies with 32 best-practice guidelines for serving kids with behavioral health needs. The recommendations span 5 key areas: 1) behavioral health screening and assessment; 2) psychosocial interventions; 3) psychopharmacological interventions; 4) parent support and empowerment; and 5) youth support and empowerment.

Findings & Stats

Statements & Quotations