Contextual Predictors of Mental Health Service Use Among Children Opento Child Welfare

Abstract
Availability of and access to mental health services for children inchild welfare/child protective services (“child welfare”) shouldbe a high priority. Several studies have documented high rates of emotionaland behavioral problems among children removed from their homes1-3 orwho remain with their families with active child welfare cases.1,4,5 Deliveryof appropriate and timely mental health services may be an important elementin reducing long-term negative consequences for children served by child welfareagencies and in decreasing placement instability among children removed fromtheir homes.