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Therapist Perspectives on Training in a Package of Evidence-Based Practice Strategies for Children with Autism Spectrum Disorders Served in Community Mental Health Clinics

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Abstract

Therapist perspectives regarding delivery of evidence-based practice (EBP) strategies are needed to understand the feasibility of implementation in routine service settings. This qualitative study examined the perspectives of 13 therapists receiving training and delivering a package of EBPs to children with autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) in community mental health clinics. Therapists perceived the training and intervention delivery as effective at improving their clinical skills, the psychotherapy process, and child and family outcomes. Results expand parent pilot study findings, and add to the literature on training community providers and limited research on training providers to deliver EBPs to children with ASD.

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Acknowledgments

This work was supported by K23MH077584 (LBF). Preparation for this manuscript was also supported by R01MH094317 (LBF) and K01MH093477 (AD). Further, Ms. Stadnick is funded through Dennis Weatherstone Predoctoral Fellowship awarded through Autism Speaks.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Psychology, San Diego State University, San Diego, CA, USA

    Amy Drahota

  2. Child and Adolescent Services Research Center, Rady Children’s Hospital-San Diego, 3020 Children’s Way MC 5033, San Diego, CA, 92123-4282, USA

    Amy Drahota, Nicole Stadnick & Lauren Brookman-Frazee

  3. Joint Doctoral Program in Clinical Psychology, San Diego State University/University of California San Diego, San Diego, CA, USA

    Nicole Stadnick

  4. Department of Psychiatry, University of California San Diego, San Diego, CA, USA

    Lauren Brookman-Frazee

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  1. Amy Drahota
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  2. Nicole Stadnick
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  3. Lauren Brookman-Frazee
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Correspondence to Amy Drahota.

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Drahota, A., Stadnick, N. & Brookman-Frazee, L. Therapist Perspectives on Training in a Package of Evidence-Based Practice Strategies for Children with Autism Spectrum Disorders Served in Community Mental Health Clinics. Adm Policy Ment Health 41, 114–125 (2014). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10488-012-0441-9

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