Collaboration for child adjustment: issues for school- and clinic-based child psychologists

Therapeutic gains for children may be maximized if the important systems serving their mental health needs develop sophisticated collaborative relationships. School- and clinic-based psychologists may overlook important ways in which they can cooperate. School-based psychologists may not be aware of how to extend or support the therapeutic interventions suggested by other psychologists. Clinic-based child therapists may lack a full understanding of both the promise of school-based programs and the constraints under which schools operate. Collaborative efforts between clinic- and school-based practitioners may increase ecologically valid treatment options. This article explores both the gains and the potential pitfalls that may arise when school- and clinic-based practitioners work together.