ERIC Number: EJ1393212
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2023-Oct
Pages: 3
Abstractor: ERIC
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: ISSN-0164-775X
EISSN: N/A
The Unique Value of School Psychologists in Integrated Pediatric Primary Care
Claiborne, Joi; Smith, Jameel M.
Communique, v52 n2 p23-25 Oct 2023
The integration of behavioral health services in primary care has become increasingly popular in pediatric settings in recent years. While there are various models of integrated behavioral health (IBH), the aim is constant: to increase access to behavioral and mental health care through collaboration between behavioral health providers and physicians. Prior to the pandemic, only 20%-50% of children and adolescents received mental health care from a professional. Since COVID-19, access to care has only worsened. Given this reality, the use of IBH has promising benefits, including: (1) positive outcomes for patients and providers; (2) improved screening, identification, and intervention; (3) improved mental health outcomes; and (4) reduction of provider burnout. Given these aims and outcomes, a major opportunity exists for school psychologists to bring unique, but highly transferable, knowledge and skills to an emerging field. In this article, the authors share the real-life experiences of a licensed school psychologist and advanced practicum student to highlight how the comprehensive training of school psychologists prepares us to perform well in an integrated setting. The authors also call attention to the numerous possibilities available for those looking for an alternative setting or expansion of their current practice.
Descriptors: School Psychologists, Role, Interdisciplinary Approach, Primary Health Care, Pediatrics, Data Use, Consultants, Student Needs, Mental Health, Child Behavior, Child Health, School Health Services, Multi Tiered Systems of Support, Student Diversity, Evidence Based Practice, Legal Responsibility, Ethics
National Association of School Psychologists. 4340 East West Highway Suite 402, Bethesda, MD 20814. Tel: 301-657-0270; Fax: 301-657-0275; e-mail: publications@naspweb.org; Web site: http://www.nasponline.org/publications/
Publication Type: Journal Articles; Reports - Descriptive
Education Level: N/A
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A