Mental Health Advocacy

Our mental health advocates help families learn more about early and effective interventions for children’s mental health disorders by offering support, information, referrals, and assistance; by building bridges between parents and professionals; and by training parents to advocate for their children. Our advocates will:

• Speak on behalf of children with mental health disorders.

• Explain the rights and responsibilities families have in the multiple systems that serve children with mental health disorders.

• Help families understand their child’s diagnosis and explore options for suitable services.

• Connect parents with support groups in their areas.

• Guide families toward increasing competency and confidence so they can act as their child’s advocate.

• Assist parents who are providing support and information to other parents.

• Provide telephone coaching, file reviews, family workshops, and accompany families to meetings when possible.