Improving and Coordinating Access to Mental Health Services for Youth in Pennsylvania's Juvenile Justice System

Published Apr 10, 2007, Models for Change

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Outlines approaches and opportunities for the juvenile justice and mental health systems to better respond to the needs of the large number (over 70%) of youth with mental health needs who come into contact with the juvenile justice system including: improved screening and assessment; policies and services that include family involvement programs that divert appropriate youth from the systems to services; increased access to effective community alternatives; and enhanced coordination with other youth serving agencies.

Reform areas: Community-based alternatives/diversion, Evidence-based practices, Mental/behavioral health