DOI
https://doi.org/10.25772/JHQD-HQ51
Defense Date
2019
Document Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Master of Science
Department
Psychology
First Advisor
Michael Southam-Gerow, PhD
Second Advisor
Bryce McLeod, PhD
Third Advisor
Jamie Cage, PhD
Abstract
The implementation of evidence-based practices has great potential to improve the quality of children’s services; however, with a large variety of available practices, it can be challenging to select targets for quality improvement in community-based treatment. This study used a method called relevance mapping to identify how thoroughly evidence-based programs could cover a specific population of children seeking services at a large public agency and identify practice elements relevant to these clients. A therapist survey was used to examine current practice at the agency. Eight therapists at the agency reported on their practice delivery for 141 clients. Results from relevance mapping and therapist surveys were combined to create practice profiles for two predominant diagnostic categories seen at the agency: substance use and depression. These practice profiles were used to identify three areas of interest for agency quality improvement with regard to practice element delivery: Agency Strengths, Opportunities, and Weaknesses. Results demonstrate a potential blueprint for tailoring specific feedback to an agency for use in quality improvement efforts.
Rights
© Natalie K. Finn
Is Part Of
VCU University Archives
Is Part Of
VCU Theses and Dissertations
Date of Submission
12-13-2019