Conclusion: Clinical social work practice in community‐based systems of care

Abstract

The system of care concept and philosophy is considered as a dynamic means for preventing school violence and meeting the mental health needs of children and adolescents. It is vital that community‐based clinical social workers take leadership in collaborations that build systems of care. This paper examines the system of care paradigm in contrast to traditional mental health services for children, youth, and families. Examples of how systems of care are evolving and implications for developing community‐based clinical practice are presented as opportunities that would entail changing systems and practice paradigms.