Improving the Dissemination of Evidence-Based Treatments: Facilitators and Barriers to Participating in Case Consultation

The current study explored one component of a multicomponent model for training clinicians in an evidence-based treatment (EBT). National experts recommend a combination of web-based and face-to-face training, followed by formal case consultation for mental health professionals (MHPs) to become proficient in providing EBTs such as trauma-focused cognitive-behavioral therapy (TF-CBT). However, barriers can impede completion of the entire training process. The current study examined participation in TF-CBT consultation calls following training in a statewide dissemination of TF-CBT through the Arkansas Building Effective Services for Trauma project. Call participants reported they were more comfortable and knowledgeable about TF-CBT, while nonparticipating MHPs reported they were more uncomfortable using TF-CBT without additional consultation and were more likely to have attended the training only to obtain continuing education credits. Agency-related barriers, such as productivity requirements, session tracking and preparation, and a mismatch between the TF-CBT target population and their own clients, were the most commonly reported reasons for not participating in calls. Top project-related barriers included 12 required calls, two call-based case presentations, and predetermined call schedules. Based on these findings, strategies for increasing TF-CBT dissemination and follow-ups to training will be discussed.