Referral Process

Referrals to Coordinated Access come from professionals involved with the child/youth.  They are typically but not exclusively social workers, psychologists, child and youth workers employed within the children’s mental health sector or protection services.  The primary worker identifies a child/youth with complex needs and contacts CA’s case coordinator to check eligibility and forwards the completed application form.

• Workers are encouraged to access our website in order to assure they complete the most recent applications.
• The applications include consent forms that need to be fully completed.  Consent forms are valid for a period of 6 months.
• Application forms can be mailed, faxed or couriered to our office.
• The primary worker is responsible for completing the application and forwarding any other pertinent documents.
• Once received by our office the file is reviewed to assure that:

✓ criteria are met (see above for client profile)

✓ all involved professionals are aware of the referral and agree

✓ all necessary documentation is included

✓ request being made is complete, precise and appropriate

• The file is then triaged to one of the following options:

1.  Coordinated Access Team Resolution through direct referral to one of the “tool box” services, such as intensive services

2.  Case Resolution Committee.  The Committee will be used for cases in which there is:

• no clear resolution about what would best serve client
• a record of multiple systems failure in case history
• need for an exceptional solution to make a difference
• need for serious consideration of admission to bed or residential service (R/S)
• need for multiple agency collaboration