Date of Conferral

1-29-2026

Date of Award

January 2026

Degree

Doctor of Human Services (D.H.S.)

School

Human Services

Advisor

Sarah Matthey

Abstract

Youth transitioning out of foster care experience increased mental health challenges that affect their ability to age out successfully to independence. In this qualitative modified action study, the environmental mental health services needed for adolescents, aged 18 to 25, aging out of the foster care system in Lafayette Parish, Louisiana were explored. This study was guided by the Families Rising framework. Purposeful sampling was used to recruit 20 participants who provided insights to this study. Participants were reached by posting flyers on social media and the online platform forums, and they signed the consent form to participate. The data were collected using semistructured interviews and analyzed using thematic analysis, following Lochmiller’s seven-step approach, to identify patterns and develop themes. The results revealed seven key themes: inadequate access to support services, barriers to navigating service systems, policy limitations, the importance of collaboration, the need for extended care, increased promotion of mental health programs, and variability in readiness for independence. The findings indicated that the lack of continuity of services and limited collaboration among agencies hinder successful transitions. Recommendations include implementing extended foster care support, improving multiagency coordination, and expanding mental health access and navigation supports. The study results can lead to positive social change by enhancing service accessibility, improving long-term mental health outcomes, and equipping community partners and human service organizations with effective strategies to support youth aging out of foster care.

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