Technical Assistance Partnership for Child and Family Mental Health

FEBRUARY2002

What information and strategies help a parent to more effectively navigate and advocate for appropriate services in the mental health system?

A major source of information for parents is the Family Guide to Systems of Care for Children with Mental Health Needs. This wonderful publication was written and evaluated by family advocacy groups. It can be obtained - free of charge - in English and Spanish from the Comprehensive Community Mental Health Services for Children and Their Families Program of the Center for Mental Health Services (CMHS) of the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA).

The booklet contains a glossary in which words used by mental health providers are defined. It also contains a list of questions that families can ask providers and a clear description of the rights and responsibilities of family members. There is also a list of resources that families can access. The toll free number for ordering the booklet is 1-800-789-2647.

Besides seeking information, it's important for families to support their child's therapy as partners with the providers. Both families and providers have expertise. Acknowledging and respecting each other's knowledge and time constraints can have a positive impact on the relationship. There may be differences in approach, culture and experiences between your family and the mental health professionals assisting your child. These differences are not necessarily negatives in the relationship but can enhance and broaden each partner's knowledge base.

Families who get help as early as possible for their children have an easier time negotiating the mental health system than families who enter the system when they and their children are in crisis. However, no matter when a family enters the mental health system, there are things that they can do to facilitate the process. First, recognize your choice to seek mental health services as a positive step. At the same time, try to accept that you will feel some fear, anxiety, anger and sadness during the process. Finally, though it might take time, be committed to finding and believe that you can find providers who are respectful, caring and competent. They will give you the help that your family needs and deserves.

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	FEBRUARY2002 What information and strategies help a parent to more effectively navigate and advocate for appropriate services in the mental health system? A major source of information for parents is the Family Guide to Systems of Care for Children with Mental Health Needs. This wonderful publication was written and evaluated by family advocacy groups. It can be obtained - free of charge - in English and Spanish from the Comprehensive Community Mental Health Services for Children and Their Families Program of the Center for Mental Health Services (CMHS) of the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA). The booklet contains a glossary in which words used by mental health providers are defined. It also contains a list of questions that families can ask providers and a clear description of the rights and responsibilities of family members. There is also a list of resources that families can access. The toll free number for ordering the booklet is 1-800-789-2647. Besides seeking information, it's important for families to support their child's therapy as partners with the providers. Both families and providers have expertise. Acknowledging and respecting each other's knowledge and time constraints can have a positive impact on the relationship. There may be differences in approach, culture and experiences between your family and the mental health professionals assisting your child. These differences are not necessarily negatives in the relationship but can enhance and broaden each partner's knowledge base. Families who get help as early as possible for their children have an easier time negotiating the mental health system than families who enter the system when they and their children are in crisis. However, no matter when a family enters the mental health system, there are things that they can do to facilitate the process. First, recognize your choice to seek mental health services as a positive step. At the same time, try to accept that you will feel some fear, anxiety, anger and sadness during the process. Finally, though it might take time, be committed to finding and believe that you can find providers who are respectful, caring and competent. They will give you the help that your family needs and deserves.

Mental Health and Systems of Care Frequently Asked Questions