Model Programs in Child and Family Mental Health

This 1996 foundational text offers a detailed examination of innovative, real-world initiatives in child and family mental health, providing a crucial snapshot of effective program models from that era. Michael C. Roberts compiles and analyzes a range of service delivery systems, from community-based interventions to school-linked health centers, offering concrete examples of what worked and why. The book serves as both a historical record and a practical guide, breaking down the core components—funding, staffing, implementation, and outcomes—that contributed to each program's success. It is a vital resource for understanding the structural and operational blueprints of pioneering mental health services.

While the specific program details are now dated, the underlying principles of collaborative care, family-centered approaches, and integrated service delivery remain highly relevant for today's practitioners and policymakers. This volume is most valuable for graduate students, researchers, and administrators seeking a deeper historical context for contemporary mental health frameworks or looking for inspiration in program design. The analytical focus on what makes a program successful provides enduring lessons that transcend the specific era, making it a thought-provoking read for anyone committed to building effective support systems for children and families.