In 2007, Maryland's Children's Cabinet prioritized funding and implementation support for several family-focused evidence-based practices (EBPs), with the goals of reducing the use of out-of-home placements and investing precious resources into programs that have been proven to achieve positive outcomes for youth and families. The Children's Cabinet selected Multisystemic Therapy (MST), an intensive family and community-based treatment program, as one of the primary EBPs to be utilized with juveniles who were adjudicated delinquent and at risk for being removed from their homes. Supported by over 30 years of research, MST offers the juvenile justice system an effective approach to reducing the number of youth sent to expensive and often ineffective out-of-home care, reducing rates of recidivism, and providing support to families that would result in lasting positive changes. Continue reading.

Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT) is becoming more widely available in Maryland, largely due to its effectiveness in reducing disruptive behavior among young children and maintaining that reduction over time. Developed by Dr. Sheila Eyberg, PCIT is based on Hanf's (1969) two-stage treatment model, which integrates approaches derived from social learning theory and attachment theory. It is designed for caregivers and children between two and seven years old, and is intended for children who exhibit disruptive behavior disorders, as well as families at high risk for child abuse, and children who are displaying risk factors for disruptive behavior disorder, such as family disruptions and developmental delays. During therapy, parents are coached by therapists on play therapy skills and discipline techniques to help improve parent-child relationships. Continue reading.

"Anything worth doing is worth doing well." At some point, a parent, teacher, coach, or supervisor probably has given you this sage advice. Did you ever wonder whether there was evidence to support it? In fact there is. Research tells us we should heed this guidance when delivering our children's behavioral health services. Meta-analyses of interventions delivered in "real world" systems have shown that "services as usual" are often no more effective than no service at all. Services based on evidence for effectiveness have a better chance of succeeding, but they must be delivered with quality and model fidelity if they are to produce positive effects. Wraparound care coordination is no exception. Continue reading.

The University of Maryland School of Social Work's Institute for Innovation & Implementation has been recognized as one of Baltimore's top places to work! The news was announced in December by The Baltimore Sun, which based results on employee surveys. The Institute was among 100 companies and organizations in Baltimore to receive the honor for 2014. "The Institute is a special place to work, with very dedicated and talented professionals who show up every day intent on making a difference in the lives of children and families. As we head towards our 10th anniversary, The Institute is proud and honored to be acknowledged as one of Baltimore's Top Workplaces for 2014," said Michelle Zabel, director. Click here to see the full list.