Date of Conferral

4-21-2026

Degree

Doctor of Psychology (Psy.D.)

School

Psychology

Advisor

Gunjan Bansal

Abstract

The behavioral health leaders at Organization X do not have a clear and practical way to engage family members in youth behavioral health programs. When caregivers are not actively involved in youth behavioral health treatment, youth may disengage from missed appointments and discontinue treatment prematurely. The present case study focused on Organization X, a small behavioral health organization located in the Southeastern United States. The Baldrige Framework of Excellence was the conceptual framework for this study, with a focus on consumer engagement and workforce operations. Semi structured and structured interviews were conducted with three behavioral health leaders. Data were collected from the interviews and from redacted internal archival documents related to family engagement work processes and practices. Using a thematic analysis approach, themes emerged such as behavioral health leaders lacking clear strategies for engaging families, limited family voice and opportunities for collaboration, and insufficient efforts to address barriers to family engagement. The findings from this study contribute to social change by bringing awareness to behavioral health leaders about the importance of engaging families in youth behavioral health treatment. Strengthening family engagement encourages family participation and improves outcomes for youth.

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