Innovative programming in school mental health. Search for a methodology.

Entering a system it often regarded as the most difficult aspect of consultation, especially when entry is initiated by the consultant. Issues involved in seeking entry into a school system are considered from the perspective of a university-based consultant interested in developing, delivering, and evaluating innovative approaches to school mental health problems. Experience with a number of school systems leads to several conclusions about the entry process. Foremost is the existence of a difficult, time-consuming period of negotiations involving various school personnel; because of their varying perspectives and different interests, problems emerge and must be resolved successfully in the course of negotiations if a consultation project is to develop. Often this is not possible, and it is therefore suggested that the consultant seeking a school setting approach several systems concurrently.