Glossary
Acting Out--Self-abusive, aggressive, violent and/or disruptive behavior.
Acute--Marked by a sudden onset, sharp rise, and lasting a short time, demanding urgent attention.
AD-Advance Directive-A legal document allowing a person to direct his/her healthcare in the event that he or she becomes unable to make or
communicate healthcare decisions.
ADHD--Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder-A neurobehavioral disorder characterized by excessive restlessness, inattention, distraction, and
impulsivity.
Adjudicated-Coming under the protection or guardianship and jurisdiction of the court.
Adjustment Disorder-An emotional and behavioral reaction that develops within 3 months of a life stress, and which is stronger or greater than what
would be expected for the type of event that occurred.
Affect--Feeling, emotion. The visible expression of emotion, especially facial expression. “Flat affect” describes a plain, emotionless facial expression and
body language.
Affective Disorder--A disorder of mood (feeling, emotion). Refers to a disturbance of mood and other symptoms that occur together for a minimal
duration of time and are not due to other physical or mental illness.
Agent is a person appointed by a person to make decisions for him/her in the event that he/she becomes incompetent or unable to make those
decisions. The part of the AD or PAD naming an agent is sometimes known as the proxy directive or proxy.
Agoraphobia--Anxiety disorder involves the fear of experiencing a panic attack in a place or situation from which escape may be difficult or embarrassing
Amenorrhea--Absence or cessation of menstrual periods
Anhedonia--An inability to experience joy
Anorexia nervosa--An eating disorder characterized by low body weight (less than 85 percent of normal weight for height and age), a distorted body
image, and an intense fear of gaining weight.
Anxiety Disorder--Exaggerated or inappropriate responses to the perception of internal or external dangers.
Appeal Process-Steps for having a decision about services reviewed and changed. Usually this involves proving the decision was wrong and will harm the
child and family. Typically, information about the appeal process is provided when requesting or obtaining services.
ASD--Autism Spectrum Disorders-Also known as pervasive developmental disorders (PDD). ASD’s are characterized by the demonstration of deficits in
social interaction, verbal and nonverbal communication, and the display of repetitive behaviors or interests.
Asperger's disorder-One type of pervasive developmental disorder that is characterized by severe and sustained impairment in social interaction and the
development of restricted, repetitive patterns of behavior, interests, and activities
Assessment-A professional evaluation of the child’s condition and needs. This usually includes a physical exam, mental health and intelligence testing,
school performance, and a review of the child’s family situation and behavior in the community.
Attachment Disorder--A condition in which individuals have difficulty forming loving, lasting, intimate relationships.
Attorney in fact--A person whom you name in a document called the Durable Power of Attorney to make medical decisions on your behalf should you
become unable to make or communicate such decisions yourself.
Avoidance--Symptom of a disorder manifested by avoiding the establishment of new interpersonal contacts to the extent that social functioning is
impaired.
BD--Behavioral Disorder-A disorder characterized by displaying behaviors over a long period of time which significantly deviate from socially acceptable
norms for the individual's age and situation.
Binge eating disorder-Disorder that resembles bulimia nervosa and is characterized by episodes of uncontrolled eating (or binging). It differs from bulimia,
however, because its sufferers do not purge their bodies of the excess food, via vomiting, laxative abuse, or diuretic abuse.
BIP--Behavioral Intervention Plan-A concrete plan of action for managing a student's behavior. A BIP may include ways to change the environment to
keep behavior from starting in the first place, provide positive reinforcement to promote good behavior, employ planned ignoring to avoid reinforcing
bad behavior, and provide supports needed so that the student will not be driven to act out due to frustration or fatigue.
BP--Bipolar (Previously referred to as manic depression)-Exaggerated mood swings between extreme lows (depression/irritability) and high (excited or
manic phases). Periods of moderate mood occur in between. During a manic phase, the child or adolescents may talk nonstop, need very little sleep,
and show unusually poor judgment. Bipolar mood swings can recur throughout life.
BPD--Borderline Personality Disorder- Prolonged disturbance of personality functions characterized by depth and variability of moods. The disorder
typically involves unusual levels of instability in mood; "black and white" thinking, or "splitting"; chaotic and unstable interpersonal relationships, self-
image, identity, and behavior; as well as a disturbance in the individual's sense of self.
Brain Injury-A condition in which an individual before, during, or after birth has received an injury to or suffered an infection of the brain. As a result of
such organic impairment, there may be disorders that prevent or impede the normal learning process.
CAN--Child Abuse and Neglect.
CANS-Child and Adolescent Needs and Strengths-A tool for use in service delivery systems that address the mental health of children, adolescents and
their families. Indiana utilizes the CANS to determine what level of service youth may most benefit.
Capitated Rates-Reimbursement by insurance companies to care providers that has predetermined amount (cap) of dollars for rendered services.
CASA - Court-Appointed Special Advocate.
Case Management-A service that assists clients to obtain and coordinate community resources such as income assistance, education, housing, medical
care, treatment, vocational preparation, and recreation.
Case Manager--An individual who organizes and coordinates services for an individual.
CC-Case Conference-The special education meeting.
CCC-Case Conference Committee (Indiana term for the IEP Team) Typically consists of the parent/guardian, youth, Teacher of Record, Teacher of
Service, Representative from the School Corporation and any others that may be involved in the education of the youth
CD--Communication Disorders-Developmental disorders that include expressive language disorder, which focuses on developmental delays and
difficulties in the ability to produce speech, and mixed receptive-expressive language disorder, which focuses on developmental delays and difficulties in
the ability to understand spoken language and produce speech.
CD--Conduct Disorder-Condition that causes children and adolescents to act out their feelings or impulses toward others in Destructive ways. Young
people with conduct disorder repeatedly violate the basic rights of others and the rules of society. The offenses that these children and adolescents
commit often get more serious over time. Examples include lying, theft, aggression, truancy, firesetting, and vandalism. Children and adolescents with
conduct disorder usually have little care or concern for others.
CD--Cognitive Development-Development of the ability to think and reason.
CEC - Council on Exceptional Children. Professional organization for persons serving exceptional school age children.
CFT--Child and Family Team-(Service Planning Teams)--A group of individuals selected by the parents to help develop a child’s service plan. The team
can include family members, professionals, friends, experts, and support people. Typically, team meetings are scheduled by the parents and occur as
often as is necessary to ensure that the family and child are receiving the help they need.
Child and adolescent psychiatrists-Licensed physicians (M.D. or D.O.) who specialize in the evaluation, diagnosis, and treatment of mental disorders in
children and adolescents. Their medical and psychiatric training with children and adolescents prepares them to treat children and adolescents either
individually, as part of and involving the family unit, and/or in a group setting. Child and adolescent psychiatrists can prescribe medications, if needed.
Child psychologist-Licensed mental health professional (Ph.D. or Psy.D.) who specializes in the evaluation, diagnosis, and treatment of mental disorders.
Training prepares clinical psychologists to treat children either individually, as part of and involving the family unit, and/or in a group setting.
Psychologists also conduct cognitive, academic, and personality testing. Cannot prescribe medication.
CHINS--Child in Need of Services-Petition filed by the state when a child is experiencing physical or emotional maltreatment, neglect or other conditions,
such as abandonment.
Chronic-Marked by long duration or frequent recurrence.
CIT-Crisis Intervention Training (NAMI)-Program that trains human service professionals in ways to safely manage disruptive and assaultive behavior.
Clinical psychologist-Licensed mental health professional (Ph.D. or Psy.D.) who specialize in the evaluation, diagnosis, and treatment of mental disorders.
Training prepares clinical psychologists to treat adults and children either individually, as part of and involving the family unit, and/or in a group setting.
Psychologists also conduct cognitive, academic, and personality testing.
CMHC-Community Mental Health Center. A facility providing local mental health services. May be run by the county or state or be a private, non-profit
organization.
CMS--Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services-Federal oversight agency for Medicaid and Medicare. Part of the Department of Health and Human
Services (DHHS).
CN--Categorically Needy
Comorbid--Pertaining to a disorder or condition that occurs simultaneously with another.
Competence is a legal term meaning the capacity to understand, appreciate, reason and make choices in the context of a specific activity or decision. A
person may be competent to make one decision but not another. For example, a person may be competent to appoint an agent but incompetent to
make a decision about medication.
Confidentiality-The limiting of access to a child’s records to his/her parents and personnel having direct involvement with the child. So, only the people
with permission to have the information will get it.
Consent--Informed consent requires that the person giving the permission understand the risks, benefits, and possible ramifications.
CPS-Child Protective Services. State or county agency responsible for addressing issues of child abuse and neglect.
Crisis Team (Emergency Services)--Services available 24 hours/day, 7 days/week during a mental health crisis. The crisis team will determine the severity
of the crisis and determine the next steps. A Designated Crisis Team serves every community. Also known as Emergency and Crisis Services,
Emergency Services Programs, Crisis Evaluation Teams, Emergency Screening Teams.
CSP-Community Support Program. Federally funded programs (through the Center for Mental Health Services) to develop community support systems
for adults with long-term psychiatric disabilities.
CT or CT Scan--Computerized Axial Tomography.
Cultural Competence-An awareness and acceptance of cultural differences, an awareness of one's own cultural values, an understanding of the
"dynamics of difference" in the helping process, basic knowledge about the client's culture, and the ability to adapt practice skills to fit the client's cultural
context.
Custody Relinquishment-practice of requiring parents to surrender one's child into the custody of the state in order to obtain services at public expense.
DAW--Dispense As Written is a term relating to the dispensing of prescription drugs as it is ordered or written; do not allow a substitution or generic.
Day Treatment--Nonresidential, intensive program of mental health services that allows the youth to return home at night.
DBSA--Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance-National organization focusing on Bipolar and Depression
DD-Developmental Disability (or Delay). Disabilities which affect a person's development, such as, mental retardation, epilepsy, autism, cerebral palsy or
similar disabilities.
Defensive Behavior-Behavior that is for the purpose of protecting the individual or avoiding unpleasant ideas, thoughts, and consequences.
Delinquency-Violation of law by a child or youth (usually under 18).
Delusions-Perception that is thought to be true by the person experiencing it, although the perception is wrong
Deviant Behavior-Breaking formal or informal rules or laws relative to social customs or norms, including sexual behavior.
Depression-Mood disorder characterized by extreme feelings of sadness, lack of self-worth, and dejection.
DHHS-United States Department of Health and Human Services.
Disintegrative psychosis (Also called childhood disintegrative disorder)-One type of pervasive developmental disorder that is characterized by a marked
regression in multiple areas of functioning following a period of at least two years of apparently normal development
Disorder of written expression-Difficulty with writing skills such as understanding grammar or punctuation, spelling, paragraph organization, or
composing written information
DD--Dual Diagnosis-Used to describe the comorbid condition of a person considered to be suffering from a mental illness and a substance abuse
problem or developmental disability
DME--Durable Medical Equipment
DMHA--Division of Mental Health and Addiction-Certifies all community mental health centers, addiction treatment services, and managed care providers.
Administers federal funds earmarked for substance abuse prevention projects.
DOC--Department of Corrections-Provides oversight of the correctional and juvenile justice systems
DOE--Department of Education-Provides oversight of all educational programs within the state or nation
DOI--Department of Insurance-Monitors and regulates the financial and market conduct activities of insurance companies and agents.
DRG--Diagnosis Related Groups which is a per-discharge reimbursement methodology that bases payment on the patient’s age, primary diagnosis and
procedures rendered during an inpatient hospital stay.
DSM--Diagnostic and Statistical Manual-Standard classification of mental disorders used by mental health professionals in the United States
Due Process Hearing-A formal legal proceeding presided over by an impartial public official who listens to both sides of the dispute and renders a decision
based upon the law.
Dx-Diagnosis-Act or process of discovering or identifying a condition or disorder by means of a medical or mental health examination
Dyslexia-A reading disorder characterized by reading ability below the expected level given a child's age, school grade, and intelligence.
Dysthymia-Classified as a type of affective disorder (or mood disorder) that often resembles a less severe, yet more chronic form of major (clinical)
depression. Persons with dysthymia may also experience major depressive episodes at times.
Early Intervention--Recognizing warning signs that a youth is at risk for mental health problems and taking early action to address the problems. Early
intervention can help youth get better more quickly and prevent problems from becoming worse.
EBD-Emotional or Behavioral Disorder.
ED--Emotional Disability-Mental disorder or mental illness is a psychological or behavioral pattern that occurs in an individual and is thought to cause
distress or disability that is not expected as part of normal development or culture
EEG - Electroencephalogram. A test that measures electrical impulses in the brain.
EH-Emotional Handicap. (Now Known as Emotional Disability)
Eligibility Criteria--Guidelines for determining whether or not a child is eligible to receive services from an agency. Usually includes age, disability, and
income. The criteria can also cover where the family resides, gender of the child, and availability of medical insurance.
Encopresis-Lack of control over bowel that is not caused by a physical disorder.
Enuresis-Involuntary urination after the age at which bladder control would normally be anticipated
EPSDT - Early and Periodic Screening, Diagnosis and Treatment. Part of Title XIX Medicaid.
ESY-Extended School Year-A range of options in providing programs in excess of the traditional 180-day school year.
Euphoria-A feeling of elation or well-being that is not based on reality and is commonly exaggerated.
Evaluation--A process that begins with a professional assessment and results in an opinion about a child’s mental and emotional state. May include
recommendations about treatment or placement.
Expressive language disorder-A communication disorder identified by developmental delays and difficulties in the ability to produce speech.
Family Driven Care-Families have a primary decision making role in the care of their own children as well as the policies and procedures governing care
for all children in their community, state, tribe, territory and nation. Includes choosing culturally and linguistically competent supports, services, and
providers; Setting goals; Designing, implementing and evaluating programs; Monitoring outcomes; and Partnering in funding decisions
Family Focused--A treatment approach that views the child as a member of a family and recognizes that everyone in a family can be affected by how
the others act, what they say, how they feel, or how they are functioning. Decisions about services are made considering the family as a whole as well
as the child with a mental health problem.
Family Involvement--a collective effort requiring representation of all cultural, ethnic, and racial groups in the community in sufficient numbers so each
has a real voice yet no one voice dominates the decision-making. The family voice and the decision-making must be as strong as that of other partners.
Family experiences and perspectives collectively drive policy, service planning, implementation, and evaluation.
FAPE--Free and Appropriate Public Education-An educational program that is individualized to a specific child, designed to meet that child's unique needs,
provides access to the general curriculum, meets the grade-level standards established by the state, and from which the child receives educational
benefit.
FBA--Functional Behavioral Assessment-Problem-solving process for addressing student problem behavior. It relies on a variety of techniques and
strategies to identify the purposes of specific behavior and to help IEP teams select interventions to directly address the problem behavior.
FERPA-Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (Student School Records Act). Federal regulation governing confidentiality of student records and
parental rights of access and consent to release.
FFCMH--Federation of Families for Children’s Mental Health-National and local parent-run organizations supporting family-run programs to meet the
needs of children and youth with emotional, behavioral or mental disorders
FPL--Federal Poverty Level-These guidelines are issued every year in January or February and are commonly referred to as the "Federal Poverty Level"
(FPL). Serves as one of the indicators for determining eligibility in a wide variety of Federal and State programs
FQHC--Federally Qualified Health Center--Primary care provider for all age groups that includes dental services, mental health, substance abuse and
transportation services on a sliding scale fee to eligible individuals.
GAD--Generalized anxiety disorder-A mental disorder characterized by chronic, excessive worry and fear that seems to have no real cause. Children or
adolescents with generalized anxiety disorder often worry a lot about things such as future events, past behaviors, social acceptance, family matters,
their personal abilities, and/or school performance.
GAF--Global Assessment of Functioning-Psychological, social, and occupational functioning on a hypothetical continuum of mental health-illness
GQE--Graduation Qualifying Exam-Assessment taken by High School Students in Indiana to evaluated ability to graduate with a diploma
Hallucinations-A strong perception of an event or object when no such situation is present; may occur in any of the senses (Visual-see, auditory-hear,
olfactory-smell, or tactile-feel)
Home Based Services--Short-term services provided in the home to help a family deal with a youth’s mental health problems.
I & R-Information and Referral.
ICF/MR--Intermediate Care Facility for People with Mental R...Developmental/Cognitive Disability.
IED--Intermittent Explosive Disorder-Behavioral/Impulse Control disorder characterized by extreme expressions of anger, often to the point of
uncontrollable rage, that are disproportionate to the situation at hand.
IEE--Independent Educational Evaluation-An evaluation conducted by a qualified examiner who is not employed by the public agency responsible for
the education of the child in question
IEP--Individual Education Plan-Builds on the curriculum that a child with learning difficulties or disabilities is following and is designed to set out the
strategies being used to meet each child's identified needs. The written plan of services for a child with a disability developed jointly by parents and
school personnel as required under Public Law 94-142.
IFSP-Individual Family Services Plan. Written objectives for each child 0-2 years of age, addressing both the child's and family's needs in the early
intervention program.
Inclusion-An opportunity for individuals with disabilities to be included in a their community with all necessary supports provided so that they can
participate fully.
Inpatient Hospitalization--Around the clock mental health treatment in a hospital setting. The purpose of inpatient hospitalization is to stabilize and treat;
and to prevent harm to the person and to others.
Involuntary commitment is the process that a person may be required to receive psychiatric treatment, either in hospital or in the community
(involuntary outpatient commitment), if he/she presents a danger to him/herself or others. This may include treatment by force.
IQ--Intelligence Quotient-A person's capacity to learn and understand, solve problems and engage in abstract reasoning
LCSW-Denotes certification by a state as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. Such licensure requires at least two years experience with a direct client
caseload under supervision and passing a state examination.
LD--Learning disorder-Characterized by difficulties in an academic area (either reading, mathematics, or written expression) such that the child's ability to
achieve in the specific academic area is below what is expected for the child's age, schooling, and level of intelligence.
LEA--Local Educational Agency (publicly funded school)-Part of a local authority that is responsible for education within that area
Living will-A document that states whether you wish to have life sustaining procedures or treatment administered should you be in a terminal condition
or permanently unconscious. The living will tells your physician whether you want "life support systems" to keep you alive in these situations or whether
you do not want to receive such treatment, even if the result is your death. A living will goes into effect only (1) when you are unable to make or
communicate your decisions about your medical care and (2) when you are in a terminal condition or permanently unconscious.
LOC--Level of Care
LOS--Length of Stay
LRE--Least Restrictive Environment-a student who has a disability should have the opportunity to be educated with non-disabled peers, to the greatest
extent possible. They should have access to the general education curriculum, extracurricular activities, or any other program that non-disabled peers
would be able to access.
LTC--Long-Term Care
MA--Medicaid-Title XIX (19) funding for medical services for individuals receiving public assistance, or who have vision impairments or disabilities.
Mainstreaming--Placement of a child with a disability in the regular classroom for part of the school day.
Major depression (Also known as clinical depression or unipolar depression.)–A type of affective/mood disorder) that goes beyond the day's ordinary
ups and downs.
Managed Care--A system of health care that oversees all services to an individual to ensure that proper treatment is provided and treatment is not
duplicated.
Mania--Part of a mood disorder which may be characterized by extreme elation, impulsivity, irritability, rapid speech, nervousness, distractibility, and/or
poor judgment.
Manic Depressive--Now known as "Bipolar Disorder"
Mathematics disorder--Learning disorder in which a child has problems with skills related to numbers such as counting, copying numbers correctly,
adding and carrying numbers, learning multiplication tables, recognizing mathematical signs, and understanding mathematical operations.
MAW--Medicaid Waiver-Program which allows a person who qualifies for services in a residential facility to receive services in their own home and
community. Program “waives” parental income for youth and allows for additional services that Medicaid typically does not cover i.e. respite, mentoring,
nursing
Mental health includes a person’s feelings, thoughts, and actions when faced with life’s situations. It also includes how people handle stress, relate to
others, make decisions, and see themselves.
MHA--Mental Health America-Nonprofit organization dedicated to helping all people live mentally healthier lives, especially individuals living with mental
illnesses.
Mixed receptive-expressive language disorder-A communication disorder that identifies developmental delays and difficulties in the ability to understand
spoken language and produce speech.
MMPI--Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory. A personality assessment tool widely used in making psychological evaluations. Normally given to
persons 16 years of age and older.
MN--Medically Needy (aka Spend-down)--Expands coverage to people who do not qualify for Medicaid due to income, but have medical needs. The
person would “spend down” by incurring medical expenses so that their income falls below a state-established medically needy income limit. [The person
pays $X amount in medical expenses each month, submit it to their caseworker and Medicaid will become active for remainder of month]
Mood disorder (Also known as affective disorder.) –A category of mental health problems which includes depressive disorders.
MR/DD-Mental Retardation/Developmental Disability (or Delay or Disorder).
MSW-Master's Degree in Social Work.
NAEYC-National Association for the Education of Young Children. A professional organization for persons in early childhood education.
NAMI--National Alliance for Mental Illness-The nation’s largest grassroots organization for people with mental illness and their families.
Neurotransmitters-Chemicals in the brain that regulate other chemicals in the brain.
NICHCY-National Information Center for Children and Youth with Disabilities. A free information service that assists parents, educators, caregivers and
others in ensuring that all children and youth with disabilities have a better opportunity to reach their fullest potential.
NIDRR-National Institute on Disability and Rehabilitation Research. A federal agency that funds research and services for persons with physical or mental
disabilities.
NIMH-National Institute of Mental Health, which formerly housed federal mental health training programs now located in the Center for Mental Health
Services.
NOPS--Notice of Procedural Safeguards-An overview that explains the specific rights and responsibilities of the parent in the special education process.
The Individuals with Disabilities Education Improvement Act 2004 (IDEA 2004) requires school districts to give parents the Procedural Safeguards only
one time a year, except upon: initial referral or on request for evaluation; the first occurrence of the filing of a due process hearing complaint; or upon
request by a parent.
NOS--Not Otherwise Specified-Used when the mental disorder appears to fall within the larger category but does not meet the criteria of any specific
disorder within that category.
OCD--Obsessive-compulsive disorder-An anxiety disorder in which a person has an unreasonable thought, fear, or worries that he/she tries to manage
through a ritualized activity to reduce the anxiety. Frequently occurring disturbing thoughts or images are called obsessions, and the rituals performed
to try to prevent or dispel them are called compulsions.
OCR--Office for Civil Rights-Responsible for monitor and violations of Section 504 and civil rights compliance
ODD--Oppositional Defiance Disorder-An ongoing pattern of disobedient, hostile, and defiant behavior toward authority figures which goes beyond the
bounds of normal childhood behavior.
OSEP--Office of Special Education Programs-Monitor and violations of IDEA for United States Department of Education (Ideas that work.)
OT-Occupational Therapy
OTC--Over the Counter--Drugs available without a prescription.
Outpatient--Office-based treatment provided in the community. This can include diagnosis, assessment, and family and individual counseling.
PAD-Psychiatric Advance Directive is a legal document allowing a person to direct his/her psychiatric treatment in the event that he or she becomes
unable to make or communicate decisions about that treatment.
PAS or P&A--Protection and Advocacy Services-Agency authorized by state and federal law to protect the rights of people with disabilities
Panic disorder-Characterized by chronic, repeated, and unexpected panic attack bouts of overwhelming fear of being in danger when there is no
specific cause for the fear. In-between panic attacks, persons with panic disorder worry excessively about when and where the next attack may occur.
Parasomnias-Disruptive sleep-related events involving inappropriate actions during sleep stages (such as sleep walking and night-terrors)
Parent Advocate--An individual who has been trained to help families get the services and supports they need. Typically, parent advocates are family
members who have raised a child with a behavioral or emotional problem and have worked with many of the agencies and providers in the community.
PBIS--Positive Behavior Interventions and Supports-A systems approach to preventing and responding to classroom and school discipline problems
PDD--Pervasive developmental disorders-Children with PDD have difficulty in areas of development or use of functional skills such as language,
communication, social skills, and motor behaviors.
PhD.-Indicates a doctoral degree in any of a wide range of disciplines (e.g., sociology, psychology)
Phobia-An uncontrollable, irrational, and persistent fear of a specific object, situation, or activity
PIC/PTI-Parent Information Center/Parent Training and Information Centers. Parent information and support programs funded by the United States
Department of Education.
Pica-The persistent eating of non-nutritive substances (such as paint, string, hair, animal droppings, insects, soil) for over a month. The behavior must
be developmentally inappropriate and not part of a culturally sanctioned practice.
POA-Power of attorney, or durable power of attorney is the legal term for the ability that an agent has to make decisions on another person’s behalf.
POC--Plan of Care-Outline of the care to be provided to an individual. It is a set of actions that will be implemented to resolve concerns identified through
an assessment.
PRTF--Psychiatric Residential Treatment Facility-Inpatient/Live-in facility that provides treatment and care for children under age 21 with emotional
disorders who require continuous medication and/or supervision or relief from environmental stresses.
Psychiatric nurse-A Masters-level clinical specialist in psychiatric mental health nursing. A psychiatric nurse is educationally and clinically trained in
psychopathology, individual, group, family therapy, and crisis intervention.
Psychiatrist-A licensed physician (M.D. or D.O.) who specializes in the evaluation, diagnosis, and treatment of mental disorders. Their training prepares
them to treat adults and children either individually, as part of and involving the family unit, and/or in a group setting. Psychiatrists can prescribe
medications.
Psychological Evaluation--An evaluation that tests a child’s intelligence, aptitudes and abilities, social skills, emotional development, and thinking skills.
Psychologist-A licensed mental health professional (Ph.D. or Psy.D.) who specializes in the evaluation, diagnosis, and treatment of mental disorders.
Training prepares clinical psychologists to treat adults and children either individually, as part of and involving the family unit, and/or in a group setting.
Psychologists also conduct cognitive, academic, and personality testing.
Psychosis-A loss of contact with reality, usually including false ideas about what is taking place or who one is (delusions) and seeing or hearing things that
aren't there (hallucinations).
PT-Physical Therapy
PTSD--Post-traumatic stress disorder-Anxiety disorder characterized by a terrifying physical or emotional event (trauma) causing the person who
survived the event to have persistent, frightening thoughts and memories, or flashbacks, of the ordeal. Persons with PTSD often feel chronically,
emotionally numb.
Purging-Persons with bulimia nervosa engage in a destructive pattern of ridding their bodies of the excess calories (to control their weight) by vomiting,
abusing laxatives or diuretics, taking enemas, and/or exercising obsessively - a process called purging.
RAD--Reactive Attachment Disorder-Serious mental health condition in which infants and young children don't establish healthy bonds to parents or
caregivers. Their basic needs for comfort, affection, nurturing and stimulation aren't met; therefore they aren’t able to learn how to create loving and
caring attachments with other people.
Residential Services--Treatment in a setting that provides educational instruction and 24-hour care for youth who require continuous supervision and
care.
Respite Services-A temporary service where someone else takes care of the child for a few hours or a few days so the family can have a short break.
Respite care can be provided in the child’s home, at the respite care provider’s home, at a special respite care facility, or at other community locations.
R/O-Rule Out-Typically used if there is an impression that there may be diagnosis but, not enough information to confirm or “rule out”
RTI--Response to Intervention or Response to Instruction (Indiana term) Program used by schools to offer supportive services to General Education
students prior to determining whether they are eligible for Special Education Services.
Rx--Prescription.
SAMHSA--Substance and Mental Health Services Administration-Federal agency which oversees mental health and substance abuse treatments,
programs and funding
SAT-Standardized Achievement Test.
Schizoaffective Disorder-A neurobiological illness where symptoms of a mood disorder and symptoms of schizophrenia are both present
Schizophrenia-Characterized by distorted thinking, strange feelings, and unusual behavior and use of language; involves a severe, chronic, and disabling
disturbance of the brain
Schizophrenia-A serious mental disorder characterized by verbal incoherence, severely impaired interpersonal relations, disturbance in thought
processes, cognitive deficits, and inappropriate or blunted affect. The child may also exhibit hallucinations or delusions.
SEA-State Educational Agency.
SED--Serious Emotional Disturbance-Youth aged birth through 17 years with a diagnosable mental, behavioral, or emotional disorder under DSM IV. In
addition, the child experiences significant functional impairments in at least one of the following areas: Activities of daily living, Interpersonal functioning,
Concentration, persistence and pace, Adaptation to change. The duration of the mental illness has been, or is expected to be, in excess of twelve (12)
months.
Selective mutism-Inability to speak in specific social situations in a child or adolescent who can and does speak in other situations
Service Coordinator (or Case Manager)---The individual who keeps track of the services and supports a child is receiving and makes sure they are
working together in a manner that is easy for the child and family to use.
Service Plan--A written document that lists and describes all the services and supports your child and family will receive. Typically, service plans include
information about the child’s and family’s strengths, problems, and needs. Good service plans also spell out what the services and supports are designed
to accomplish as well as how and when progress will be assessed. If the child is receiving special education, the service plan is called an Individualized
Education Program (IEP).
SES--Supplemental Educational Services-Free extra academic help for individuals who are eligible to receive free/reduced lunch and attend a school that
is marked for improvement. School provides assistance such as tutoring or remedial help that is provided to students in subjects such as reading,
language arts, and math. This extra help can be provided before or after school, on weekends, or in the summer.
SMI--Serious Mental Illness-Adults aged 18 and over with a diagnosable mental, behavioral, or emotional disorder which results in functional impairment
that substantially interferes with or limits one or more major life activities
SOC--Systems of Care-A coordinated network of community-based services and supports that are organized to meet the challenges of children and
youth with serious mental health needs and their families. Systems of Care is an approach to services that recognizes the importance of family, school
and community, and seeks to promote the full potential of every child and youth by addressing their physical, emotional, intellectual, cultural and social
needs.
Social Maladjustment--Extreme difficulty dealing appropriately with other people.
Social phobia-An anxiety disorder in which a person has significant anxiety and discomfort related to a fear of being embarrassed, humiliated, or scorned
by others in social or performance situations
Sociopath-A term sometimes used to describe persons with extreme disregard for and hostility toward society.
SOF--State Operated Facility-Residential facilities operated by the state
Somatization-A symptom found in a number of childhood disorders in which psychological or social factors contribute to physical symptoms.
Specific phobia-A type of phobia characterized by extreme fear of an object or situation that is not harmful under general conditions
Spend-down (aka Medically Needy)--Expands coverage to people who do not qualify for Medicaid due to income, but have medical needs. The person
would “spend down” by incurring medical expenses so that their income falls below a state-established medically needy income limit. [The person pays
$X amount in medical expenses each month, submit it to their caseworker and Medicaid will become active for remainder of month]
SS--Social Security
SSA-Social Security Administration. A federal agency that administers social security and disability benefits. Glossary of SSA terms.
SSDI--Social Security Disability Insurance. A federal program administered by SSA for individual who are disabled.
SSI--Supplemental Security Income-Federal payments for individuals who have not paid social security taxes and meets the income/disability
requirements
SSRI--Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors-Antidepressant medication that affects serotonin levels in the brain.
Status Offense-Non-criminal behavior of a child such as running away, truancy, and curfew violation, that can result in juvenile court action.
Statute--A written law passed, or enacted, by legislature. The law may be shaped by the US Constitution; federal law, including the Americans with
Disabilities Act; and/or by decided cases.
Substituted judgment--A decision made by one individual for another person that he/she thinks the person would make if they were competent or able
to make it.
Suicidal behavior-Actions taken by one who is considering or preparing to cause his/her own death
Suicidal ideation-Thoughts of suicide or wanting to take one's life
Suicide attempt-An act focused on taking one's life that is unsuccessful in causing death
Support Services--Things that are done or provided to the family for help. It may include transportation, financial help, support groups, recreation,
respite services, and other services to children and families.
TBI--Traumatic Brain Injury-Condition which occurs when an outside force traumatically injures the brain
TOR-Teacher of Record-The Special Education Teacher licensed in your child’s area of suspected disability
TOS-Teacher of Service-Any teacher who provides services to a student with a disability. A teacher of service could be a general education classroom
teacher or a special education teacher who provides instruction to the student.
Transition-The change from using children's services to using adult services, moving from one program to another, starting or leaving school, or other
important life changes. Also can mean moving from one activity to another, such as evening to bedtime.
Transitional Services--Helps youths move into adulthood or into the adult mental health system. Includes mental health care, supported housing, and
vocational/employment services.
Treatment Modality-The method that is used to treat a child; for example, behavior management is one treatment modality and play therapy is another.
TS--Tourette’s syndrome- A tic disorder characterized by repeated involuntary movements and uncontrollable vocal sounds. This disorder usually
begins during childhood or early adolescence.
VR-Vocational Rehabilitation.
Withdrawing Behavior-Behavior characterized by reduced interest in or contact with other people, and can include absence of speech, regression to
babyhood, exhibition of many fears, depression, refusing contacts with other people.
WRAP--Wellness Recovery Action Plan-Program designed by an individual in practical, day-to-day terms and holds the key to getting and staying well.
It does not necessarily replace traditional treatments and can be used as a compliment to any other treatment options chosen.
Wraparound-A widely-implemented approach to community-based treatment for children with emotional and behavioral disorders and their families.
Wraparound Services-A full range of services tailored to the needs of a youth and his or her family. Includes both traditional mental health and support
services. Support services are often unique, and address specific sources of stress.
Acute--Marked by a sudden onset, sharp rise, and lasting a short time, demanding urgent attention.
AD-Advance Directive-A legal document allowing a person to direct his/her healthcare in the event that he or she becomes unable to make or
communicate healthcare decisions.
ADHD--Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder-A neurobehavioral disorder characterized by excessive restlessness, inattention, distraction, and
impulsivity.
Adjudicated-Coming under the protection or guardianship and jurisdiction of the court.
Adjustment Disorder-An emotional and behavioral reaction that develops within 3 months of a life stress, and which is stronger or greater than what
would be expected for the type of event that occurred.
Affect--Feeling, emotion. The visible expression of emotion, especially facial expression. “Flat affect” describes a plain, emotionless facial expression and
body language.
Affective Disorder--A disorder of mood (feeling, emotion). Refers to a disturbance of mood and other symptoms that occur together for a minimal
duration of time and are not due to other physical or mental illness.
Agent is a person appointed by a person to make decisions for him/her in the event that he/she becomes incompetent or unable to make those
decisions. The part of the AD or PAD naming an agent is sometimes known as the proxy directive or proxy.
Agoraphobia--Anxiety disorder involves the fear of experiencing a panic attack in a place or situation from which escape may be difficult or embarrassing
Amenorrhea--Absence or cessation of menstrual periods
Anhedonia--An inability to experience joy
Anorexia nervosa--An eating disorder characterized by low body weight (less than 85 percent of normal weight for height and age), a distorted body
image, and an intense fear of gaining weight.
Anxiety Disorder--Exaggerated or inappropriate responses to the perception of internal or external dangers.
Appeal Process-Steps for having a decision about services reviewed and changed. Usually this involves proving the decision was wrong and will harm the
child and family. Typically, information about the appeal process is provided when requesting or obtaining services.
ASD--Autism Spectrum Disorders-Also known as pervasive developmental disorders (PDD). ASD’s are characterized by the demonstration of deficits in
social interaction, verbal and nonverbal communication, and the display of repetitive behaviors or interests.
Asperger's disorder-One type of pervasive developmental disorder that is characterized by severe and sustained impairment in social interaction and the
development of restricted, repetitive patterns of behavior, interests, and activities
Assessment-A professional evaluation of the child’s condition and needs. This usually includes a physical exam, mental health and intelligence testing,
school performance, and a review of the child’s family situation and behavior in the community.
Attachment Disorder--A condition in which individuals have difficulty forming loving, lasting, intimate relationships.
Attorney in fact--A person whom you name in a document called the Durable Power of Attorney to make medical decisions on your behalf should you
become unable to make or communicate such decisions yourself.
Avoidance--Symptom of a disorder manifested by avoiding the establishment of new interpersonal contacts to the extent that social functioning is
impaired.
BD--Behavioral Disorder-A disorder characterized by displaying behaviors over a long period of time which significantly deviate from socially acceptable
norms for the individual's age and situation.
Binge eating disorder-Disorder that resembles bulimia nervosa and is characterized by episodes of uncontrolled eating (or binging). It differs from bulimia,
however, because its sufferers do not purge their bodies of the excess food, via vomiting, laxative abuse, or diuretic abuse.
BIP--Behavioral Intervention Plan-A concrete plan of action for managing a student's behavior. A BIP may include ways to change the environment to
keep behavior from starting in the first place, provide positive reinforcement to promote good behavior, employ planned ignoring to avoid reinforcing
bad behavior, and provide supports needed so that the student will not be driven to act out due to frustration or fatigue.
BP--Bipolar (Previously referred to as manic depression)-Exaggerated mood swings between extreme lows (depression/irritability) and high (excited or
manic phases). Periods of moderate mood occur in between. During a manic phase, the child or adolescents may talk nonstop, need very little sleep,
and show unusually poor judgment. Bipolar mood swings can recur throughout life.
BPD--Borderline Personality Disorder- Prolonged disturbance of personality functions characterized by depth and variability of moods. The disorder
typically involves unusual levels of instability in mood; "black and white" thinking, or "splitting"; chaotic and unstable interpersonal relationships, self-
image, identity, and behavior; as well as a disturbance in the individual's sense of self.
Brain Injury-A condition in which an individual before, during, or after birth has received an injury to or suffered an infection of the brain. As a result of
such organic impairment, there may be disorders that prevent or impede the normal learning process.
CAN--Child Abuse and Neglect.
CANS-Child and Adolescent Needs and Strengths-A tool for use in service delivery systems that address the mental health of children, adolescents and
their families. Indiana utilizes the CANS to determine what level of service youth may most benefit.
Capitated Rates-Reimbursement by insurance companies to care providers that has predetermined amount (cap) of dollars for rendered services.
CASA - Court-Appointed Special Advocate.
Case Management-A service that assists clients to obtain and coordinate community resources such as income assistance, education, housing, medical
care, treatment, vocational preparation, and recreation.
Case Manager--An individual who organizes and coordinates services for an individual.
CC-Case Conference-The special education meeting.
CCC-Case Conference Committee (Indiana term for the IEP Team) Typically consists of the parent/guardian, youth, Teacher of Record, Teacher of
Service, Representative from the School Corporation and any others that may be involved in the education of the youth
CD--Communication Disorders-Developmental disorders that include expressive language disorder, which focuses on developmental delays and
difficulties in the ability to produce speech, and mixed receptive-expressive language disorder, which focuses on developmental delays and difficulties in
the ability to understand spoken language and produce speech.
CD--Conduct Disorder-Condition that causes children and adolescents to act out their feelings or impulses toward others in Destructive ways. Young
people with conduct disorder repeatedly violate the basic rights of others and the rules of society. The offenses that these children and adolescents
commit often get more serious over time. Examples include lying, theft, aggression, truancy, firesetting, and vandalism. Children and adolescents with
conduct disorder usually have little care or concern for others.
CD--Cognitive Development-Development of the ability to think and reason.
CEC - Council on Exceptional Children. Professional organization for persons serving exceptional school age children.
CFT--Child and Family Team-(Service Planning Teams)--A group of individuals selected by the parents to help develop a child’s service plan. The team
can include family members, professionals, friends, experts, and support people. Typically, team meetings are scheduled by the parents and occur as
often as is necessary to ensure that the family and child are receiving the help they need.
Child and adolescent psychiatrists-Licensed physicians (M.D. or D.O.) who specialize in the evaluation, diagnosis, and treatment of mental disorders in
children and adolescents. Their medical and psychiatric training with children and adolescents prepares them to treat children and adolescents either
individually, as part of and involving the family unit, and/or in a group setting. Child and adolescent psychiatrists can prescribe medications, if needed.
Child psychologist-Licensed mental health professional (Ph.D. or Psy.D.) who specializes in the evaluation, diagnosis, and treatment of mental disorders.
Training prepares clinical psychologists to treat children either individually, as part of and involving the family unit, and/or in a group setting.
Psychologists also conduct cognitive, academic, and personality testing. Cannot prescribe medication.
CHINS--Child in Need of Services-Petition filed by the state when a child is experiencing physical or emotional maltreatment, neglect or other conditions,
such as abandonment.
Chronic-Marked by long duration or frequent recurrence.
CIT-Crisis Intervention Training (NAMI)-Program that trains human service professionals in ways to safely manage disruptive and assaultive behavior.
Clinical psychologist-Licensed mental health professional (Ph.D. or Psy.D.) who specialize in the evaluation, diagnosis, and treatment of mental disorders.
Training prepares clinical psychologists to treat adults and children either individually, as part of and involving the family unit, and/or in a group setting.
Psychologists also conduct cognitive, academic, and personality testing.
CMHC-Community Mental Health Center. A facility providing local mental health services. May be run by the county or state or be a private, non-profit
organization.
CMS--Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services-Federal oversight agency for Medicaid and Medicare. Part of the Department of Health and Human
Services (DHHS).
CN--Categorically Needy
Comorbid--Pertaining to a disorder or condition that occurs simultaneously with another.
Competence is a legal term meaning the capacity to understand, appreciate, reason and make choices in the context of a specific activity or decision. A
person may be competent to make one decision but not another. For example, a person may be competent to appoint an agent but incompetent to
make a decision about medication.
Confidentiality-The limiting of access to a child’s records to his/her parents and personnel having direct involvement with the child. So, only the people
with permission to have the information will get it.
Consent--Informed consent requires that the person giving the permission understand the risks, benefits, and possible ramifications.
CPS-Child Protective Services. State or county agency responsible for addressing issues of child abuse and neglect.
Crisis Team (Emergency Services)--Services available 24 hours/day, 7 days/week during a mental health crisis. The crisis team will determine the severity
of the crisis and determine the next steps. A Designated Crisis Team serves every community. Also known as Emergency and Crisis Services,
Emergency Services Programs, Crisis Evaluation Teams, Emergency Screening Teams.
CSP-Community Support Program. Federally funded programs (through the Center for Mental Health Services) to develop community support systems
for adults with long-term psychiatric disabilities.
CT or CT Scan--Computerized Axial Tomography.
Cultural Competence-An awareness and acceptance of cultural differences, an awareness of one's own cultural values, an understanding of the
"dynamics of difference" in the helping process, basic knowledge about the client's culture, and the ability to adapt practice skills to fit the client's cultural
context.
Custody Relinquishment-practice of requiring parents to surrender one's child into the custody of the state in order to obtain services at public expense.
DAW--Dispense As Written is a term relating to the dispensing of prescription drugs as it is ordered or written; do not allow a substitution or generic.
Day Treatment--Nonresidential, intensive program of mental health services that allows the youth to return home at night.
DBSA--Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance-National organization focusing on Bipolar and Depression
DD-Developmental Disability (or Delay). Disabilities which affect a person's development, such as, mental retardation, epilepsy, autism, cerebral palsy or
similar disabilities.
Defensive Behavior-Behavior that is for the purpose of protecting the individual or avoiding unpleasant ideas, thoughts, and consequences.
Delinquency-Violation of law by a child or youth (usually under 18).
Delusions-Perception that is thought to be true by the person experiencing it, although the perception is wrong
Deviant Behavior-Breaking formal or informal rules or laws relative to social customs or norms, including sexual behavior.
Depression-Mood disorder characterized by extreme feelings of sadness, lack of self-worth, and dejection.
DHHS-United States Department of Health and Human Services.
Disintegrative psychosis (Also called childhood disintegrative disorder)-One type of pervasive developmental disorder that is characterized by a marked
regression in multiple areas of functioning following a period of at least two years of apparently normal development
Disorder of written expression-Difficulty with writing skills such as understanding grammar or punctuation, spelling, paragraph organization, or
composing written information
DD--Dual Diagnosis-Used to describe the comorbid condition of a person considered to be suffering from a mental illness and a substance abuse
problem or developmental disability
DME--Durable Medical Equipment
DMHA--Division of Mental Health and Addiction-Certifies all community mental health centers, addiction treatment services, and managed care providers.
Administers federal funds earmarked for substance abuse prevention projects.
DOC--Department of Corrections-Provides oversight of the correctional and juvenile justice systems
DOE--Department of Education-Provides oversight of all educational programs within the state or nation
DOI--Department of Insurance-Monitors and regulates the financial and market conduct activities of insurance companies and agents.
DRG--Diagnosis Related Groups which is a per-discharge reimbursement methodology that bases payment on the patient’s age, primary diagnosis and
procedures rendered during an inpatient hospital stay.
DSM--Diagnostic and Statistical Manual-Standard classification of mental disorders used by mental health professionals in the United States
Due Process Hearing-A formal legal proceeding presided over by an impartial public official who listens to both sides of the dispute and renders a decision
based upon the law.
Dx-Diagnosis-Act or process of discovering or identifying a condition or disorder by means of a medical or mental health examination
Dyslexia-A reading disorder characterized by reading ability below the expected level given a child's age, school grade, and intelligence.
Dysthymia-Classified as a type of affective disorder (or mood disorder) that often resembles a less severe, yet more chronic form of major (clinical)
depression. Persons with dysthymia may also experience major depressive episodes at times.
Early Intervention--Recognizing warning signs that a youth is at risk for mental health problems and taking early action to address the problems. Early
intervention can help youth get better more quickly and prevent problems from becoming worse.
EBD-Emotional or Behavioral Disorder.
ED--Emotional Disability-Mental disorder or mental illness is a psychological or behavioral pattern that occurs in an individual and is thought to cause
distress or disability that is not expected as part of normal development or culture
EEG - Electroencephalogram. A test that measures electrical impulses in the brain.
EH-Emotional Handicap. (Now Known as Emotional Disability)
Eligibility Criteria--Guidelines for determining whether or not a child is eligible to receive services from an agency. Usually includes age, disability, and
income. The criteria can also cover where the family resides, gender of the child, and availability of medical insurance.
Encopresis-Lack of control over bowel that is not caused by a physical disorder.
Enuresis-Involuntary urination after the age at which bladder control would normally be anticipated
EPSDT - Early and Periodic Screening, Diagnosis and Treatment. Part of Title XIX Medicaid.
ESY-Extended School Year-A range of options in providing programs in excess of the traditional 180-day school year.
Euphoria-A feeling of elation or well-being that is not based on reality and is commonly exaggerated.
Evaluation--A process that begins with a professional assessment and results in an opinion about a child’s mental and emotional state. May include
recommendations about treatment or placement.
Expressive language disorder-A communication disorder identified by developmental delays and difficulties in the ability to produce speech.
Family Driven Care-Families have a primary decision making role in the care of their own children as well as the policies and procedures governing care
for all children in their community, state, tribe, territory and nation. Includes choosing culturally and linguistically competent supports, services, and
providers; Setting goals; Designing, implementing and evaluating programs; Monitoring outcomes; and Partnering in funding decisions
Family Focused--A treatment approach that views the child as a member of a family and recognizes that everyone in a family can be affected by how
the others act, what they say, how they feel, or how they are functioning. Decisions about services are made considering the family as a whole as well
as the child with a mental health problem.
Family Involvement--a collective effort requiring representation of all cultural, ethnic, and racial groups in the community in sufficient numbers so each
has a real voice yet no one voice dominates the decision-making. The family voice and the decision-making must be as strong as that of other partners.
Family experiences and perspectives collectively drive policy, service planning, implementation, and evaluation.
FAPE--Free and Appropriate Public Education-An educational program that is individualized to a specific child, designed to meet that child's unique needs,
provides access to the general curriculum, meets the grade-level standards established by the state, and from which the child receives educational
benefit.
FBA--Functional Behavioral Assessment-Problem-solving process for addressing student problem behavior. It relies on a variety of techniques and
strategies to identify the purposes of specific behavior and to help IEP teams select interventions to directly address the problem behavior.
FERPA-Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (Student School Records Act). Federal regulation governing confidentiality of student records and
parental rights of access and consent to release.
FFCMH--Federation of Families for Children’s Mental Health-National and local parent-run organizations supporting family-run programs to meet the
needs of children and youth with emotional, behavioral or mental disorders
FPL--Federal Poverty Level-These guidelines are issued every year in January or February and are commonly referred to as the "Federal Poverty Level"
(FPL). Serves as one of the indicators for determining eligibility in a wide variety of Federal and State programs
FQHC--Federally Qualified Health Center--Primary care provider for all age groups that includes dental services, mental health, substance abuse and
transportation services on a sliding scale fee to eligible individuals.
GAD--Generalized anxiety disorder-A mental disorder characterized by chronic, excessive worry and fear that seems to have no real cause. Children or
adolescents with generalized anxiety disorder often worry a lot about things such as future events, past behaviors, social acceptance, family matters,
their personal abilities, and/or school performance.
GAF--Global Assessment of Functioning-Psychological, social, and occupational functioning on a hypothetical continuum of mental health-illness
GQE--Graduation Qualifying Exam-Assessment taken by High School Students in Indiana to evaluated ability to graduate with a diploma
Hallucinations-A strong perception of an event or object when no such situation is present; may occur in any of the senses (Visual-see, auditory-hear,
olfactory-smell, or tactile-feel)
Home Based Services--Short-term services provided in the home to help a family deal with a youth’s mental health problems.
I & R-Information and Referral.
ICF/MR--Intermediate Care Facility for People with Mental R...Developmental/Cognitive Disability.
IED--Intermittent Explosive Disorder-Behavioral/Impulse Control disorder characterized by extreme expressions of anger, often to the point of
uncontrollable rage, that are disproportionate to the situation at hand.
IEE--Independent Educational Evaluation-An evaluation conducted by a qualified examiner who is not employed by the public agency responsible for
the education of the child in question
IEP--Individual Education Plan-Builds on the curriculum that a child with learning difficulties or disabilities is following and is designed to set out the
strategies being used to meet each child's identified needs. The written plan of services for a child with a disability developed jointly by parents and
school personnel as required under Public Law 94-142.
IFSP-Individual Family Services Plan. Written objectives for each child 0-2 years of age, addressing both the child's and family's needs in the early
intervention program.
Inclusion-An opportunity for individuals with disabilities to be included in a their community with all necessary supports provided so that they can
participate fully.
Inpatient Hospitalization--Around the clock mental health treatment in a hospital setting. The purpose of inpatient hospitalization is to stabilize and treat;
and to prevent harm to the person and to others.
Involuntary commitment is the process that a person may be required to receive psychiatric treatment, either in hospital or in the community
(involuntary outpatient commitment), if he/she presents a danger to him/herself or others. This may include treatment by force.
IQ--Intelligence Quotient-A person's capacity to learn and understand, solve problems and engage in abstract reasoning
LCSW-Denotes certification by a state as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. Such licensure requires at least two years experience with a direct client
caseload under supervision and passing a state examination.
LD--Learning disorder-Characterized by difficulties in an academic area (either reading, mathematics, or written expression) such that the child's ability to
achieve in the specific academic area is below what is expected for the child's age, schooling, and level of intelligence.
LEA--Local Educational Agency (publicly funded school)-Part of a local authority that is responsible for education within that area
Living will-A document that states whether you wish to have life sustaining procedures or treatment administered should you be in a terminal condition
or permanently unconscious. The living will tells your physician whether you want "life support systems" to keep you alive in these situations or whether
you do not want to receive such treatment, even if the result is your death. A living will goes into effect only (1) when you are unable to make or
communicate your decisions about your medical care and (2) when you are in a terminal condition or permanently unconscious.
LOC--Level of Care
LOS--Length of Stay
LRE--Least Restrictive Environment-a student who has a disability should have the opportunity to be educated with non-disabled peers, to the greatest
extent possible. They should have access to the general education curriculum, extracurricular activities, or any other program that non-disabled peers
would be able to access.
LTC--Long-Term Care
MA--Medicaid-Title XIX (19) funding for medical services for individuals receiving public assistance, or who have vision impairments or disabilities.
Mainstreaming--Placement of a child with a disability in the regular classroom for part of the school day.
Major depression (Also known as clinical depression or unipolar depression.)–A type of affective/mood disorder) that goes beyond the day's ordinary
ups and downs.
Managed Care--A system of health care that oversees all services to an individual to ensure that proper treatment is provided and treatment is not
duplicated.
Mania--Part of a mood disorder which may be characterized by extreme elation, impulsivity, irritability, rapid speech, nervousness, distractibility, and/or
poor judgment.
Manic Depressive--Now known as "Bipolar Disorder"
Mathematics disorder--Learning disorder in which a child has problems with skills related to numbers such as counting, copying numbers correctly,
adding and carrying numbers, learning multiplication tables, recognizing mathematical signs, and understanding mathematical operations.
MAW--Medicaid Waiver-Program which allows a person who qualifies for services in a residential facility to receive services in their own home and
community. Program “waives” parental income for youth and allows for additional services that Medicaid typically does not cover i.e. respite, mentoring,
nursing
Mental health includes a person’s feelings, thoughts, and actions when faced with life’s situations. It also includes how people handle stress, relate to
others, make decisions, and see themselves.
MHA--Mental Health America-Nonprofit organization dedicated to helping all people live mentally healthier lives, especially individuals living with mental
illnesses.
Mixed receptive-expressive language disorder-A communication disorder that identifies developmental delays and difficulties in the ability to understand
spoken language and produce speech.
MMPI--Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory. A personality assessment tool widely used in making psychological evaluations. Normally given to
persons 16 years of age and older.
MN--Medically Needy (aka Spend-down)--Expands coverage to people who do not qualify for Medicaid due to income, but have medical needs. The
person would “spend down” by incurring medical expenses so that their income falls below a state-established medically needy income limit. [The person
pays $X amount in medical expenses each month, submit it to their caseworker and Medicaid will become active for remainder of month]
Mood disorder (Also known as affective disorder.) –A category of mental health problems which includes depressive disorders.
MR/DD-Mental Retardation/Developmental Disability (or Delay or Disorder).
MSW-Master's Degree in Social Work.
NAEYC-National Association for the Education of Young Children. A professional organization for persons in early childhood education.
NAMI--National Alliance for Mental Illness-The nation’s largest grassroots organization for people with mental illness and their families.
Neurotransmitters-Chemicals in the brain that regulate other chemicals in the brain.
NICHCY-National Information Center for Children and Youth with Disabilities. A free information service that assists parents, educators, caregivers and
others in ensuring that all children and youth with disabilities have a better opportunity to reach their fullest potential.
NIDRR-National Institute on Disability and Rehabilitation Research. A federal agency that funds research and services for persons with physical or mental
disabilities.
NIMH-National Institute of Mental Health, which formerly housed federal mental health training programs now located in the Center for Mental Health
Services.
NOPS--Notice of Procedural Safeguards-An overview that explains the specific rights and responsibilities of the parent in the special education process.
The Individuals with Disabilities Education Improvement Act 2004 (IDEA 2004) requires school districts to give parents the Procedural Safeguards only
one time a year, except upon: initial referral or on request for evaluation; the first occurrence of the filing of a due process hearing complaint; or upon
request by a parent.
NOS--Not Otherwise Specified-Used when the mental disorder appears to fall within the larger category but does not meet the criteria of any specific
disorder within that category.
OCD--Obsessive-compulsive disorder-An anxiety disorder in which a person has an unreasonable thought, fear, or worries that he/she tries to manage
through a ritualized activity to reduce the anxiety. Frequently occurring disturbing thoughts or images are called obsessions, and the rituals performed
to try to prevent or dispel them are called compulsions.
OCR--Office for Civil Rights-Responsible for monitor and violations of Section 504 and civil rights compliance
ODD--Oppositional Defiance Disorder-An ongoing pattern of disobedient, hostile, and defiant behavior toward authority figures which goes beyond the
bounds of normal childhood behavior.
OSEP--Office of Special Education Programs-Monitor and violations of IDEA for United States Department of Education (Ideas that work.)
OT-Occupational Therapy
OTC--Over the Counter--Drugs available without a prescription.
Outpatient--Office-based treatment provided in the community. This can include diagnosis, assessment, and family and individual counseling.
PAD-Psychiatric Advance Directive is a legal document allowing a person to direct his/her psychiatric treatment in the event that he or she becomes
unable to make or communicate decisions about that treatment.
PAS or P&A--Protection and Advocacy Services-Agency authorized by state and federal law to protect the rights of people with disabilities
Panic disorder-Characterized by chronic, repeated, and unexpected panic attack bouts of overwhelming fear of being in danger when there is no
specific cause for the fear. In-between panic attacks, persons with panic disorder worry excessively about when and where the next attack may occur.
Parasomnias-Disruptive sleep-related events involving inappropriate actions during sleep stages (such as sleep walking and night-terrors)
Parent Advocate--An individual who has been trained to help families get the services and supports they need. Typically, parent advocates are family
members who have raised a child with a behavioral or emotional problem and have worked with many of the agencies and providers in the community.
PBIS--Positive Behavior Interventions and Supports-A systems approach to preventing and responding to classroom and school discipline problems
PDD--Pervasive developmental disorders-Children with PDD have difficulty in areas of development or use of functional skills such as language,
communication, social skills, and motor behaviors.
PhD.-Indicates a doctoral degree in any of a wide range of disciplines (e.g., sociology, psychology)
Phobia-An uncontrollable, irrational, and persistent fear of a specific object, situation, or activity
PIC/PTI-Parent Information Center/Parent Training and Information Centers. Parent information and support programs funded by the United States
Department of Education.
Pica-The persistent eating of non-nutritive substances (such as paint, string, hair, animal droppings, insects, soil) for over a month. The behavior must
be developmentally inappropriate and not part of a culturally sanctioned practice.
POA-Power of attorney, or durable power of attorney is the legal term for the ability that an agent has to make decisions on another person’s behalf.
POC--Plan of Care-Outline of the care to be provided to an individual. It is a set of actions that will be implemented to resolve concerns identified through
an assessment.
PRTF--Psychiatric Residential Treatment Facility-Inpatient/Live-in facility that provides treatment and care for children under age 21 with emotional
disorders who require continuous medication and/or supervision or relief from environmental stresses.
Psychiatric nurse-A Masters-level clinical specialist in psychiatric mental health nursing. A psychiatric nurse is educationally and clinically trained in
psychopathology, individual, group, family therapy, and crisis intervention.
Psychiatrist-A licensed physician (M.D. or D.O.) who specializes in the evaluation, diagnosis, and treatment of mental disorders. Their training prepares
them to treat adults and children either individually, as part of and involving the family unit, and/or in a group setting. Psychiatrists can prescribe
medications.
Psychological Evaluation--An evaluation that tests a child’s intelligence, aptitudes and abilities, social skills, emotional development, and thinking skills.
Psychologist-A licensed mental health professional (Ph.D. or Psy.D.) who specializes in the evaluation, diagnosis, and treatment of mental disorders.
Training prepares clinical psychologists to treat adults and children either individually, as part of and involving the family unit, and/or in a group setting.
Psychologists also conduct cognitive, academic, and personality testing.
Psychosis-A loss of contact with reality, usually including false ideas about what is taking place or who one is (delusions) and seeing or hearing things that
aren't there (hallucinations).
PT-Physical Therapy
PTSD--Post-traumatic stress disorder-Anxiety disorder characterized by a terrifying physical or emotional event (trauma) causing the person who
survived the event to have persistent, frightening thoughts and memories, or flashbacks, of the ordeal. Persons with PTSD often feel chronically,
emotionally numb.
Purging-Persons with bulimia nervosa engage in a destructive pattern of ridding their bodies of the excess calories (to control their weight) by vomiting,
abusing laxatives or diuretics, taking enemas, and/or exercising obsessively - a process called purging.
RAD--Reactive Attachment Disorder-Serious mental health condition in which infants and young children don't establish healthy bonds to parents or
caregivers. Their basic needs for comfort, affection, nurturing and stimulation aren't met; therefore they aren’t able to learn how to create loving and
caring attachments with other people.
Residential Services--Treatment in a setting that provides educational instruction and 24-hour care for youth who require continuous supervision and
care.
Respite Services-A temporary service where someone else takes care of the child for a few hours or a few days so the family can have a short break.
Respite care can be provided in the child’s home, at the respite care provider’s home, at a special respite care facility, or at other community locations.
R/O-Rule Out-Typically used if there is an impression that there may be diagnosis but, not enough information to confirm or “rule out”
RTI--Response to Intervention or Response to Instruction (Indiana term) Program used by schools to offer supportive services to General Education
students prior to determining whether they are eligible for Special Education Services.
Rx--Prescription.
SAMHSA--Substance and Mental Health Services Administration-Federal agency which oversees mental health and substance abuse treatments,
programs and funding
SAT-Standardized Achievement Test.
Schizoaffective Disorder-A neurobiological illness where symptoms of a mood disorder and symptoms of schizophrenia are both present
Schizophrenia-Characterized by distorted thinking, strange feelings, and unusual behavior and use of language; involves a severe, chronic, and disabling
disturbance of the brain
Schizophrenia-A serious mental disorder characterized by verbal incoherence, severely impaired interpersonal relations, disturbance in thought
processes, cognitive deficits, and inappropriate or blunted affect. The child may also exhibit hallucinations or delusions.
SEA-State Educational Agency.
SED--Serious Emotional Disturbance-Youth aged birth through 17 years with a diagnosable mental, behavioral, or emotional disorder under DSM IV. In
addition, the child experiences significant functional impairments in at least one of the following areas: Activities of daily living, Interpersonal functioning,
Concentration, persistence and pace, Adaptation to change. The duration of the mental illness has been, or is expected to be, in excess of twelve (12)
months.
Selective mutism-Inability to speak in specific social situations in a child or adolescent who can and does speak in other situations
Service Coordinator (or Case Manager)---The individual who keeps track of the services and supports a child is receiving and makes sure they are
working together in a manner that is easy for the child and family to use.
Service Plan--A written document that lists and describes all the services and supports your child and family will receive. Typically, service plans include
information about the child’s and family’s strengths, problems, and needs. Good service plans also spell out what the services and supports are designed
to accomplish as well as how and when progress will be assessed. If the child is receiving special education, the service plan is called an Individualized
Education Program (IEP).
SES--Supplemental Educational Services-Free extra academic help for individuals who are eligible to receive free/reduced lunch and attend a school that
is marked for improvement. School provides assistance such as tutoring or remedial help that is provided to students in subjects such as reading,
language arts, and math. This extra help can be provided before or after school, on weekends, or in the summer.
SMI--Serious Mental Illness-Adults aged 18 and over with a diagnosable mental, behavioral, or emotional disorder which results in functional impairment
that substantially interferes with or limits one or more major life activities
SOC--Systems of Care-A coordinated network of community-based services and supports that are organized to meet the challenges of children and
youth with serious mental health needs and their families. Systems of Care is an approach to services that recognizes the importance of family, school
and community, and seeks to promote the full potential of every child and youth by addressing their physical, emotional, intellectual, cultural and social
needs.
Social Maladjustment--Extreme difficulty dealing appropriately with other people.
Social phobia-An anxiety disorder in which a person has significant anxiety and discomfort related to a fear of being embarrassed, humiliated, or scorned
by others in social or performance situations
Sociopath-A term sometimes used to describe persons with extreme disregard for and hostility toward society.
SOF--State Operated Facility-Residential facilities operated by the state
Somatization-A symptom found in a number of childhood disorders in which psychological or social factors contribute to physical symptoms.
Specific phobia-A type of phobia characterized by extreme fear of an object or situation that is not harmful under general conditions
Spend-down (aka Medically Needy)--Expands coverage to people who do not qualify for Medicaid due to income, but have medical needs. The person
would “spend down” by incurring medical expenses so that their income falls below a state-established medically needy income limit. [The person pays
$X amount in medical expenses each month, submit it to their caseworker and Medicaid will become active for remainder of month]
SS--Social Security
SSA-Social Security Administration. A federal agency that administers social security and disability benefits. Glossary of SSA terms.
SSDI--Social Security Disability Insurance. A federal program administered by SSA for individual who are disabled.
SSI--Supplemental Security Income-Federal payments for individuals who have not paid social security taxes and meets the income/disability
requirements
SSRI--Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors-Antidepressant medication that affects serotonin levels in the brain.
Status Offense-Non-criminal behavior of a child such as running away, truancy, and curfew violation, that can result in juvenile court action.
Statute--A written law passed, or enacted, by legislature. The law may be shaped by the US Constitution; federal law, including the Americans with
Disabilities Act; and/or by decided cases.
Substituted judgment--A decision made by one individual for another person that he/she thinks the person would make if they were competent or able
to make it.
Suicidal behavior-Actions taken by one who is considering or preparing to cause his/her own death
Suicidal ideation-Thoughts of suicide or wanting to take one's life
Suicide attempt-An act focused on taking one's life that is unsuccessful in causing death
Support Services--Things that are done or provided to the family for help. It may include transportation, financial help, support groups, recreation,
respite services, and other services to children and families.
TBI--Traumatic Brain Injury-Condition which occurs when an outside force traumatically injures the brain
TOR-Teacher of Record-The Special Education Teacher licensed in your child’s area of suspected disability
TOS-Teacher of Service-Any teacher who provides services to a student with a disability. A teacher of service could be a general education classroom
teacher or a special education teacher who provides instruction to the student.
Transition-The change from using children's services to using adult services, moving from one program to another, starting or leaving school, or other
important life changes. Also can mean moving from one activity to another, such as evening to bedtime.
Transitional Services--Helps youths move into adulthood or into the adult mental health system. Includes mental health care, supported housing, and
vocational/employment services.
Treatment Modality-The method that is used to treat a child; for example, behavior management is one treatment modality and play therapy is another.
TS--Tourette’s syndrome- A tic disorder characterized by repeated involuntary movements and uncontrollable vocal sounds. This disorder usually
begins during childhood or early adolescence.
VR-Vocational Rehabilitation.
Withdrawing Behavior-Behavior characterized by reduced interest in or contact with other people, and can include absence of speech, regression to
babyhood, exhibition of many fears, depression, refusing contacts with other people.
WRAP--Wellness Recovery Action Plan-Program designed by an individual in practical, day-to-day terms and holds the key to getting and staying well.
It does not necessarily replace traditional treatments and can be used as a compliment to any other treatment options chosen.
Wraparound-A widely-implemented approach to community-based treatment for children with emotional and behavioral disorders and their families.
Wraparound Services-A full range of services tailored to the needs of a youth and his or her family. Includes both traditional mental health and support
services. Support services are often unique, and address specific sources of stress.
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| GLOSSARY OF ACRONYMS, LAWS AND TERMS FOR PARENTS WHOSE CHILDREN HAVE EMOTIONAL AND/OR BEHAVIORAL DISORDERS. ~Items are arranged by alphabetically by the acronym or word. If you are looking for a specific word or term, push the "CTRL" and "F" button at the same time on your keyboard to bring up Find/Search tool. |