Many programs have divergent attitudes towards treatment and may not have effective ways of communicating with each other.”

The topic of access to services is very significant for this population. There are currently many obstacles that stand in the way of complete access to services that were documented by the stakeholder groups. In addition, the stakeholder group identified several opportunities to enhance access as well as linkages with new partners to help in improving the lives of individuals with psychiatric disabilities.

Listed below is a general breakdown of the various stakeholders comments about access and linkages. Please note that there were many common themes voiced by the group.

Breakdown of Access and Linkage Recommendations:

  • Cross System Approaches/Coordinated Interagency Model;
  • In order for effective change, all stakeholder agencies must be at the table;
  • Memo of Understanding among state agencies;
  • Linkages are needed to translate to services;
  • Care Coordination (includes transportation, adult/children links), education, employment, social services and vocational training;
  • Family Linkages;
  • Support Networks;
  • Recognizing Cultural Differences;
  • Learning Basic Independent Living Skills (cooking, cleaning, making appointments, medication management, etc.).

There are several responses found in the literature in regard to Access and Linkages that respond to several of the identified needs.  In addition, there are several other linkages suggested in the literature to enhance services for this population.

One of the major barriers identified is that because of the diverse needs of this population, there is a lack of coordinated services. As stated in the National Conference of State Legislators work on YIT, “Many programs have divergent attitudes towards treatment and may not have effective ways of communicating with each other.” (i.e., — mental health system, child welfare, housing, labor, juvenile justice, etc.)

Table of Contents

Overview of Literature Search
Background
Best Practices

I)      Access and Linkages
A. Cross Systems Approach
B. Care Coordination
C. Family Links
D. Workforce

II)     Population
A. Eligibility
B. Diverse Populations Involved with Youth in Transition
C. Schools (Screenings and Assessments)

III)   Services
         A. Overarching Service Needs
B. Employment
C. Education Services
D. Self-Determination and Empowerment
E. Youth Mentors
F. Clinical Services
G. Individualized and Person Centered Planning
H. Cultural Competence
I. Adult Skills Training

IV)   Financing
A. Overarching Funding including Blended Models
B. Youth Oriented Services
C. Employment and Education
             (Subset of Youth-Oriented Services)
D. Clinical Services

V)     Housing
A. Various Housing Options for Youth in Transition
B. YIT Services Linked to Housing
C. Housing Model Funding

VI)   Transition to Independence Process System (TIP)
        (Emerging Best Practice)

Summary

Resources

Literature Search: End Notes

Advisory Group Members