Foster children in Missouri receive mental heath services through Medicaid. In order to receive therapeutic services, the child must have a diagnosis through the DSMV. This petition exists in an effort to discontinue the need for a diagnosis in order for foster children to obtain mental health services. This petition does not stand to say that diagnoses be eliminated all together, but that they not be required for children in foster care to receive services, such as therapy, behavioral intervention, and psychology. Foster children are likely to enter the system having experienced abuse, neglect, and trauma, including the separation from their parents. They deserve equal access to treatment without the need to label them! Sign this petition if you chose to foster love not labels in Missouri!!!

-UMKC MSW Student Research and Policy Group