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Abstract: 

Engaging families in child and adolescent mental health services remains a challenge, despite recent advances in evidence-based practices that promote family involvement and comprehensive mental health services in schools. Little is known about effective strategies to engage and empower families as part of providing high-quality school mental health services, and understanding caregiver’s and clinician’s perspectives of barriers is needed. The current study uses qualitative data from caregiver interviews and clinician focus groups concerning the feasibility and acceptability of delivering an evidence-based treatment strategy in schools for youth experiencing mood difficulties. The data suggest a number of logistical and communication barriers, yet endorse the provision of youth services in schools.

Keywords: School mental health services, mood disorders, evidence-based practice, family involvement, Student Emotional and Educational Development (SEED) program

Affiliations:  1: University of South Carolina; 2: University of South Carolina; 3: Appalachian State University; 4: University of South Carolina.