When should the referral for a CBHA be completed?

The referral for a Comprehensive Behavioral Health Assessment (CBHA) should be completed within 7 days of removal. This timeline is crucial because the CBHA serves to evaluate the needs of the child and identify any mental health concerns that may arise as a result of the traumatic experience of removal from their home. Conducting the assessment within this timeframe ensures that appropriate interventions can be implemented in a timely manner, ultimately supporting the child's emotional and psychological well-being during a critical transitional period in their life.

By conducting the assessment within 7 days, child welfare professionals can gather necessary information while the child's circumstances are still fresh, which aids in creating an accurate and comprehensive understanding of their needs. Prompt assessment helps in setting a path forward for necessary services, whether that be therapy, counseling, or other support systems that can contribute to the child's stability and development after experiencing disruption.