The Child and Adolescent Service Intensity Instrument (CASII) and the Early Childhood Service Intensity Instrument (ECSII) are assessment tools created by members of the Work Group on Systems of Care to help mental health clinicians determine the appropriate level of care for children and adolescents.

The Early Childhood Service Intensity Instrument (ECSII) determines intensity of service need for infants, toddlers, and children from ages 0-5 years. The ECSII is a tool for providers and others involved in the care of young children with emotional, behavioral, and/or developmental needs, and their families, including those children who are experiencing environmental stressors that may put them at risk for such problems. Such children and their families may need services from a variety of agencies and providers including child welfare, mental health, primary and specialty health care, child care, early education, adult mental health and substance abuse services, and an array of community supports. The ECSII provides a common language for these diverse individuals and offers guidance in selecting appropriate services at the appropriate intensity for the youngest and most vulnerable children. For more information on the ECSII, please go to: http://www.aacap.org/cs/root/member_information/practice_information/ecsii

The CASII is a standardized tool that provides a determination of the appropriate intensity of services needed by a child or adolescent, ages 6-18, being served within a continuum of care. The CASII assesses the service intensity needs of children and adolescents presenting with psychiatric, substance use and/or developmental concerns. It takes into account family factors, cultural considerations, community supports, environmental concerns, medical and behavioral health co morbidities, safety concerns and responses to interventions. The instrument is designed to facilitate an integrated service response by multiple systems (mental health, juvenile justice, child welfare) to the child?s needs and helps promote effective communication between multiple service providers. For more information on the CASII, please go to: http://www.aacap.org/cs/root/member_information/practice_information/casii