The Parent/Child Advocate Program

If your child is involved in the mental health system, or if you believe your child may need help for behavioral or emotional problems, an ADVOCATE can help you:

• seek and/or understand an appropriate diagnosis for your child.
• understand mental health laws, rules and regulations, services and costs.
• express your concerns to providers, lawyers, family members, school personnel and others.
• work to resolve conflicts regarding your child's rights within the school, juvenile justice or mental health systems.
• make sure the family's point of view in matters concerning a child's treatment, placement or education is expressed and actively considered by any decision-making body.

An advocate is NOT a counselor or lawyer and cannot provide therapeutic or legal services.

An advocate CAN offer support and encouragement and can make referrals to appropriate services, professionals and support groups.

An advocate can also go with you to meetings that involve your child's welfare.

The Mental Health Association in Westmoreland County offers these services free of charge.