WHAT WORKS FOR WHOM - THE DESIGN AND EVALUATION OF CHILDRENS MENTAL-HEALTH-SERVICES

This article describes an innovative approach by a state mental health agency that integrates public policy, needs assessment, evaluation, and research. The New York State Off ice of Mental Health has recently developed a policy direction for children's mental health services that is community based and family centered. A general paradigm for evaluation research across children's programs is also presented. The policy framework, the evaluation research model, and data on characteristics of children served and their outcomes are presented.