NORWICH – A state-funded program that would target mentally ill children and youths for services at the county’s mental hygiene clinic came under intense scrutiny Thursday.
Town of Pharsalia Supervisor Dennis Brown had a myriad of questions for Chenango County Community Mental Hygiene Services Director Mary Ann Spyrn regarding Child and Family Clinic Plus. Spryn revealed the new initiative in her monthly report to the Finance Committee.
The New York State Office of Mental Health has determined that the current capacity for providing mental health services to children and youths in the state is less than half of what is required. The program would double the capacity for clinic services, provide an early screening system in the schools, and support in-home services.
About $220,000 in revenues would be directed to the Chenango County department and spur the hiring of three social workers and one clerical staff in 2007. Based on the department head’s calculations, the program could net $72,000 in revenue over expenses next year if it adopts the program. The state money will begin flowing in the fourth quarter of this year.
Spryn said the Office of Mental Health had identified clinics throughout the state that were inadequately serving children and youths. In Chenango County, seven counselors are asked to see 600 clients, one third of which are kids.
“Our counselors cannot possibly see all of these kids as often as they should be seen,” Spryn said.
Brown specifically objected to the in-school screening and identification component of Child and Family Clinic Plus, calling it a matter of “drumming up clients” for mental health departments.
“It’s just another way to add staff,” he said.
Spryn rebuked Brown by suggesting he not be “so cynical.”
“The earlier we identify these kids, the more regular and shorter their treatment will be. Helping them with their problems at an early age will save them for more intensive treatment later on,” she explained.
“Who are we talking about here, the class bully?” Brown asked.
Spryn said counselors would identify kids who “are depressed, anxious or have some fears.”
