Engaging Parents in Mental Health Services: A Qualitative Study of Community Health Workers’ Strategies in High Poverty Urban Communities

Authors: Erika L Gustafson, Davielle Lakind, Angela L Walden, Dana Rusch, Marc S Atkins

In the US, the use of CHWs in providing mental health services is growing. This study researched engagement strategies for a school-based mental health service model by employing a CHW workforce to implement early intervention programs in high poverty urban communities. Key findings of the study support the ability of CHWs to identify and implement an array of engagement strategies with families that mirror traditional mental health services. In conclusion, CHWs are valuable partners in engaging underserved communities in mental health services and in reducing mental health disparities.