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Evidence-based Treatments in the Field: A Brief Report on Provider Knowledge, Implementation, and Practice

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Abstract

This study examined familiarity, perceived effectiveness, and implementation of evidence-based treatments for children in community settings. A sample of service providers in agencies affiliated with federal programs to improve children's mental health services was identified using a snowball sampling procedure. Forty-four percent of the sample (n = 616) responded to a Web-based survey designed to collect data on evidence-based treatments. High familiarity with, relatively high-perceived effectiveness, and generally high use of evidence-based treatments were reported. Partial implementation of treatment protocols within the context of few agency mandates and widely ranging supports for the implementation of evidence-based treatments was found. Results support the inclusion of more complex models of diffusion, dissemination and implementation in research, and development efforts for evidence-based treatments.

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Authors and Affiliations

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Correspondence to Christine M. Walrath PhD.

Additional information

Angela K. Sheehan, MPA, is a research associate at ORC Macro, 116 John Street, Suite 800, New York, NY 10038.

E. Wayne Holden, PhD, at the time of manuscript preparation was the president at ORC Macro, 3 Corporate Sq, NE, Suite 370 Atlanta, GA 30329.

Mario Hernandez, PhD, is a professor at Louis de la Parte Florida Mental Health Institute, University of South Florida, 13301 Bruce B. Downs Blvd. MHC2424H, Tampa, FL 33612 and Department of Child and Family Studies, University of South Florida.

Gary M. Balu, PhD, is the branch chief at Child, Adolescent and Family Branch, Center for Mental Health Services, Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, 1 Choke Cherry Road, Room 6-1045, Rockville, MD 20857.

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Walrath, C.M., Sheehan, A.K., Holden, E.W. et al. Evidence-based Treatments in the Field: A Brief Report on Provider Knowledge, Implementation, and Practice. JBHSR 33, 244–253 (2006). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11414-005-9008-9

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s11414-005-9008-9

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