Seriously emotionally disturbed youth: a needs assessment.

A desire to improve outcomes for children and families led Erie County, New York to collaborate with the University at Buffalo Department of Family Medicine on a needs assessment of children with emotional disturbance. Demographic and behavioral characteristics, as well as service needs were identified through case-based interviews conducted with key informants who provided services to children with emotional disturbance. Family interviews were conducted whenever possible. Results demonstrate a need for enhanced case management, service coordination, services specific to children and families, and expanded community-based services.