Case Study Explores System Support Mapping for CBITS Sustainability

Cognitive Behavioral Intervention for Trauma in Schools (CBITS) is an evidence-based program to support youth with traumatic stress symptoms delivered in school settings.  CHDI’s Diana Perry, PsyD; Jason Lang, PhD; and colleagues from Rutgers, University of North Carolina co-authored an article in Evidence-Based Practice in Child and Adolescent Mental Health on implementing and sustaining CBITS in an under-resourced urban community. The article, “Novel Application of System Support Mapping for Sustainment of Trauma-focused Mental Health Intervention in School-Based Health Centers: A Case Study,” reviewed how System Support Mapping; a process that “maps” roles, responsibilities, needs, and resources; improved sustainability and expanded implementation of a school-based trauma intervention by school health centers. Understanding sustainment related to the implementation of evidence-based interventions, particularly those provided in schools, can help advance mental health equity for under-resourced communities.

CHDI has partnered with the State of Connecticut to disseminate CBITS and Bounce Back (BB), an adaptation of CBITS for elementary school-age children, in approximately 200 schools and community-based settings since 2015. Over 3,400 children have received either CBITS or BB.  Children that participated in CBITS and BB groups reported very high (91%) satisfaction. On average, youth that complete CBITS and BB report reductions in PTSD symptoms.  The State of Connecticut is funding an expansion of CBITS and BB with the goal of attaining statewide coverage. Connecticut providers, schools, school-based health centers, or others interested in participating in the Connecticut CBITS initiative (at no cost) can get more information at www.chdi.org/cbits.