Enhancing the Delivery of an Empirically-Supported Trauma-Focused Treatment for Adolescents: Providers' Views of the Role of Technology and Web-Based Resources

Adm Policy Ment Health. 2018 Jul;45(4):575-586. doi: 10.1007/s10488-017-0846-6.

Abstract

This mixed-methods study assessed providers' views of the use of technology in the delivery of an empirically supported mental health treatment for adolescents (Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy; TF-CBT). Thematic qualitative interviews were conducted with nine experienced providers. Emerging themes served as the basis for the creation of a quantitative web-based survey, completed by 56 TF-CBT experts, to assess the perceived helpfulness of the recommendations. Technology was perceived as a useful, appealing, and familiar tool that could greatly enhance the delivery of this treatment modality with adolescents. Main recommendations included the creation of a mobile application targeting all of the treatment components and a website with developmentally appropriate resources for providers, caregivers, and teens. Technology may be a useful tool for enhancing service delivery and promoting engagement among youth receiving trauma-focused mental health treatment.

Keywords: Adolescent mental health; Dissemination and implementation; Service delivery; TF-CBT; Technology; Treatment engagement; e-Health.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adult
  • Attitude of Health Personnel*
  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy / methods*
  • Delivery of Health Care / methods*
  • Depressive Disorder / psychology
  • Depressive Disorder / therapy*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Internet*
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Mobile Applications
  • Psychological Trauma / psychology
  • Psychological Trauma / therapy
  • Psychology
  • Qualitative Research
  • Social Workers
  • Stress Disorders, Post-Traumatic / psychology
  • Stress Disorders, Post-Traumatic / therapy*
  • Stress, Psychological / psychology
  • Stress, Psychological / therapy*
  • Telemedicine*
  • Therapy, Computer-Assisted