Neuropsychology and Youth Mental Health in Victoria: The Results of a Clinical Service Audit

Abstract

Objective

The allocation of neuropsychology services in Victoria's public youth mental health system is very limited. The objective of this study was to evaluate the utility of a youth mental health neuropsychology service over a 16‐month period, and to evaluate referrer feedback about the service.

Methods

A 16‐month clinical data audit and referrer survey of the Eastern Health Child and Youth Mental Health Service neuropsychology service.

Results

A total of 45 clients were seen for assessment during the audit period with an age range of 7–25-years. Neuropsychological involvement identified DSM diagnoses in 42% of clients, as well as findings that were considered to be of neuropsychological importance in a further 51%. Case manager referrer surveys were returned at a rate of 58%, with 100% of responses indicating that the neuropsychological input had assisted with treatment planning, and that 79% of responders had altered their therapeutic approach after receiving the neuropsychological results.

Conclusions

Neuropsychology input in youth mental health services is useful from both a diagnostic and treatment planning perspective and often results in alterations in the therapeutic approach of case managers.

Key words:

• evaluation
• mental health
• neurocognition
• neuropsychology
• psychology
• youth

Acknowledgements

This research was conducted within the CYMHS of Eastern Health, Victoria, Australia. KA is supported by a Ronald Philip Griffiths Fellowship from The University of Melbourne. SH has previously held an NHMRC Training Fellowship.