Walk-in Services for Child and Family Mental Health

Lengthy wait lists, costly treatment, and social stigma keep individuals around the world from accessing much needed mental health care. Walk-in clinics for mental health have been proposed to reduce these deterrents. The present study systematically reviewed research published from 2000 to 2013 on...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Journal of systemic therapies 2015-03, Vol.34 (1), p.61-77
Main Authors: Bloom, Kathleen, Tam, Jane A.
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Systematic review
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Summary:Lengthy wait lists, costly treatment, and social stigma keep individuals around the world from accessing much needed mental health care. Walk-in clinics for mental health have been proposed to reduce these deterrents. The present study systematically reviewed research published from 2000 to 2013 on mental health walk-in clinics for children and families. Nineteen articles were identified. Only two studies directly assessed the efficacy of walk-in clinics over scheduled services. Neither study could provide definitive conclusions. Many studies assessed and found satisfaction with services and outcomes. Two Canadian studies suggested that walk-in clinics for mental health care are cost effective and reduce impacts on the health care system. Studies reflected one of three therapeutic models: solution-focused, narrative, and cognitive behavior therapy. Gaps in research are discussed and recommendations are made for future development. Finally, a catalogue of characteristics of research-based walk-in clinics is provided for those interested in developing services and sharing practical information.
ISSN:1195-4396
1930-6318
DOI:10.1521/jsyt.2015.34.1.61