Seeking help a second time: parents'/caregivers' characterizations of previous experiences with mental health services for their children and perceptions of barriers to future use.

ABSTRACT

This study examines the relationship between urban parents'/caregivers' previous experiences obtaining mental health care for their children and their perceptions of barriers to their children's use of services in the future. Assessments of prior treatment outcome and aspects of relationships with former providers were linked to endorsements of doubt about the utility of treatment as a potential barrier to the children's use of services in the future and the number of barriers parents endorsed. Implications for urban child mental health service delivery are drawn.