Improving mental health care for children by addressing social challenges
Official title: Attending to the “whole” child in mental health care: Utilizing a partnership approach to address social risk factors alongside an evidence-based psychotherapy
Funded at University of Washington · NIH-10891458 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is working to improve mental health care for children by finding better ways to help them deal with tough social issues, like not having enough food or support, especially in low-to-middle income countries, and it involves parents and local counselors to create helpful and culturally relevant therapy options.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Washington NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Seattle, United States) |
| Project start | August 16, 2022 |
| Project end | August 15, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $48,974 |
| NIH project number | 5F31MH130041-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-10891458 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are children aged 0-11 years who are experiencing mental health challenges alongside significant social risk factors.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not face social risk factors or who are outside the age range of 0-11 years may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on enhancing mental health care for children by addressing social risk factors that negatively impact their well-being. It aims to develop strategies that integrate these social challenges with evidence-based psychotherapies, particularly in low-to-middle income countries. By collaborating with lay counselors and guardians, the project seeks to create culturally-adapted therapeutic approaches that respond to the specific needs of children facing issues like food insecurity and lack of support. The methodology includes evaluating the effectiveness of these integrated strategies to improve mental health outcomes.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved mental health outcomes for children by providing more comprehensive care that addresses both psychological and social needs.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in integrating social factors with mental health treatments, indicating that this approach could be effective.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Washington
Seattle, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Johnson, Clara — University of Washington
- Study coordinator: Johnson, Clara
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.