Schools and mental health agencies can join resources to meet the mental health needs of children and youth, but this may present some challenges.

These efforts have not been without challenges, as both schools and mental health agencies are faced with the realities of developing and implementing programs with decreased funding and fewer professional staff while continuing to address administrative mandates. Communities that join their resources to build successful programs and services to meet the needs of children and youth will find that they can be successful in meeting the responsibilities of both education and mental health agencies.

This brief examines typical differences among schools and agencies—such as terminology, confidentiality rules, professional culture, diagnostic process, and eligibility—in an effort to promote shared vision and mission.