Based on a set of recommendations approved by the National Task Force on School Consultation, this article presents a detailed rationale and guidelines for establishing special education consultation programs. Guidelines are focused on seven critical areas: financing, referral practices, performance standards, teacher skills, caseloads,…

Mental health, behavioral, and process consultation models are described as three theoretical approaches to the practice of school-based consultation. Drawing from each of these models, an ecological model of consultation is offered as a conceptual umbrella for planning entry, assessment, intervention, and evaluation activities with handicapped…

The article discusses the future of consultation as a special education service delivery model in the context of its historical development and current practice. The influence of the educational reform movement and the regular education initiative on special education consultation is discussed, and future directions for the discipline suggested.…

The article examines the efficacy of educational consultation through a review of research studies in the following categories: field-based survey research, outcome studies, and process investigations. It is suggested that future research maintain a broader-based ecological perspective which includes such factors as staffing patterns, cost…