Service coordination in mental health systems for children, youth, and families: progress, problems, prospects

The present article focuses on critical issues in the provision of service coordination to children and youth with serious emotional disabilities (SED) and their families, particularly those concerns most relevant to program organization and administration. Perspectives and issues gleaned from a review of evaluative data, focus group discussions with service coordinators and their supervisors, and clinical and administrative experience within a statewide SED initiative are considered in three areas: (1) roles, responsibilities, and relationships; (2) organizational context; and (3) training and supervision. Recommendations for enhancement of child, youth, and family mental health service coordination are provided.