A Case for a Multi-Professional Approved Clinician Role in Child and Adolescent Mental Health Service Inpatient Units, Crisis, and Liaison

Abstract

This case supports the rationale for implementing a multi-professional approved clinician (MPAC) role for neurodivergent individuals within child and adolescent mental health services (CAMHS). An MPAC's core discipline is commonly social work, mental health nursing, and occupational therapy, with additional training, experience, and skills in mental health law, policy, and practice. The MPAC role would complement the existing approved clinician role, usually fulfilled by a psychiatrist. Adding the MPAC role would provide a holistic multidisciplinary approach to mental health provision for children and adolescents up to age 25. Furthermore, the introduction of this role will enhance quality of care, improve service efficiency, and generate financial benefits by optimizing resource utilization within CAMHS.