Mrs Rebecca Mondello1
1Perth Children's Hospital, Nedlands, Australia
Abstract:
This presentation will outline the development, design and outcomes of an allied health led Behavioural Health Clinic (BHC). Developed in response to the increasing incidence of paediatric social behavioural presentations to the Perth Children’s Hospital (PCH) Emergency Department (ED). It will emphasise how this model addresses existing service gaps and supports improved outcomes for children and families in crisis.
Paediatric social behavioural presentations are complex crises, where neurodevelopmental, behavioural, substance use and/or mental health factors contribute to significant safety risks. Both national and international data reflect a sustained increase in such presentations, with PCH ED data showing a similar trend. Children presented with diagnosed, undiagnosed or underdiagnosed neurodivergence, compounded by limited access to community services.
Existing ED services lack the capacity to address the complex psychosocial needs, the prolonged family distress, the high risk of family breakdown and the fragmented care.
The BHC is a trauma informed, allied health, rapid response; led by a Senior Social Worker with Occupational Therapy as clinically indicated. The model of care aims to strengthen the intergenerational family system, minimise caregivers’ distress and improve the overall wellbeing and quality of life for the child and family. Interventions include psychoeducation, single-session therapy, family system interventions, grief and loss counselling, care coordination and interagency case conferencing.
Outcome data indicates reduced ED re-presentations, enhanced family capacity and improved access to appropriate community supports.