The Role of Consultation Clinics in Services for Children and Young People with Learning Disabilities and/or Autism

Background: Consultation and supervision are familiar to many professionals, and their relevance to those working with children with learning disabilities and autism is discussed. Method: Consultation Clinics for Community Learning Disability Nurses and others were set up by a specialist Child and Adolescent Mental Health team servicing an area with a general population of 750,000. They were provided by a clinical psychologist and a psychiatrist, and data on their use were collected over a 16 month period. Results: There were differences in frequency of use between nurses based in more rural teams and those in city teams. The number of children discussed increased over time, and approximately half continued to be supported by the discussant, rather than being referred to the Tier 3 service. Conclusions: Suggestions are made as to the possible impact and benefits, with discussion also considering the role of professional responsibilities in consultative services.