Therapist and Organizational Factors Associated with Participation in Evidence-Based Practice Initiatives in a Large Urban Publicly-Funded Mental Health System

J Behav Health Serv Res. 2018 Apr;45(2):174-186. doi: 10.1007/s11414-017-9552-0.

Abstract

The goal of this study was to identify therapist and organizational characteristics associated with participation in evidence-based practice (EBP) training initiatives sponsored by a large publicly funded mental health system. Self-report data from therapists (N = 247) nested within 28 mental health clinics was collected in 2015. Results from regression analyses indicated that length of time employed at an organization was associated with individual therapist participation in an EBP initiative. Organizational and implementation climate were associated with organizational participation in an EBP initiative. Organizations characterized by higher levels of stress were more likely to participate in EBP initiatives and organizations characterized by higher engagement and educational support for EBPs were less likely to participate. Implications include the need for systems to consider organizational characteristics when sponsoring organizations in EBP initiatives.

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Attitude of Health Personnel*
  • Child
  • Child Behavior Disorders / therapy
  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy*
  • Community Mental Health Centers*
  • Community Mental Health Services
  • Counselors / psychology*
  • Counselors / statistics & numerical data
  • Evidence-Based Practice*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Linear Models
  • Male
  • Mental Disorders
  • Organizational Culture
  • Philadelphia
  • Public Sector
  • Surveys and Questionnaires
  • Urban Population