Mental Health Collaboration: A Survey of Practicing School Psychologists. Issue 1 (2nd January 2018)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Villarreal, Victor
• Is Part Of: Journal of applied school psychology. Volume 34:Issue 1(2018)
• Page Start: 1
• Page End: 17
• Publication Date: 2018-01-02
• Subjects: Collaboration -- communication -- comprehensive services -- mental health -- school psychology; Educational psychology -- Periodicals; Education, Special -- Periodicals; 370.15
• DOI: 10.1080/15377903.2017.1328626
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1537-7903

Abstract

ABSTRACT: Schools have become the primary setting for mental health service among youth. However, school-based providers are sometimes limited by lack of time, training, and other resources. Furthermore, problem-solving models emphasize the importance of developing partnerships with other professionals and agencies. Thus, it is critical to engage in collaborative practice with non–school-based, community mental health providers (CMHPs). The purpose of this study was to survey practicing school psychologists about their experiences in communicating and collaborating with CMHPs. Participants ( n = 194) indicated their frequency of communication and collaboration with CMHPs; although communication (i.e., release and receipt of information) was typical, fewer school psychologists reported engaging in ongoing collaboration. Benefits and barriers to collaboration were identified, and implications for practice are discussed.