SECOE Mission Statement
The SECOE exists to serve the children and families of the Southeast Region. We work with DCS to provide consultation for children in custody or at risk for custody with complex medical, behavioral, psychological and psychiatric problems. SECOE services include case triage, case review, comprehensive consultation conferences, psychiatric evaluations, psychological evaluations, and temporary medication management while awaiting transition to a permanent provider. We also offer training to community providers and DCS personnel on various mental health and best practice topics.
When should a referral be made?
- When the case is complex and there are diagnostic and mental health concerns.
- When there are conflicting diagnoses among providers.
- When a comprehensive review of the child’s history (behavior, treatment, placement) would assist in determining the child’s current needs.
- When an evaluation or examination would add information needed for placement or treatment recommendations.
- When there is concern about a developmental delay.
- When there is concern about medications.
Referring to the SECOE
To make a COE referral for children in state’s custody, contact your DCS Well-Being Unit clinician to triage and determine if other interventions or referrals are indicated and/or what type of COE service to request. For referring an at-risk child, please see the below referral forms. If the referral is deemed appropriate, a confirmation email will be sent to inform you that we are moving forward with the referral process.
You can click below to open our referral form and release of information. Both documents are able to be completed on the computer and can be faxed or emailed to: 423-490-0410 or ashley.smith@secoe.us.
*Please be aware incomplete referrals or referrals lacking detailed information will delay the process.*