Engaging consumers with mental health and/or substance use disorders to be active participants in their care can be challenging. This interactive seminar will cover engagement both within the context of evidence-based practices focused on outreach and general skills and engagement strategies outside of those unique programs. We will describe engagement strategies associated with and program components built into assertive community treatment and other similar evidence-based practice. Then, we will discuss general engagement tools that can be used in any mental health treatment, such as defining recovery goals as well as using listening skills and motivational enhancement techniques. We will reserve some time for small groups to identify engagement strategies that have been or might be helpful in their treatment setting.
Angela Rollins, Ph.D., is a Research Scientist at Regenstrief Institute and Associate Research Professor of Psychology at Indiana University Purdue University Indianapolis (IUPUI). Dr. Rollins' research interests are primarily in studying methods for improving implementation of evidence-based mental health practices for people with severe mental illness. Recent topics include the measurement of program fidelity, improving clinical knowledge and skills, and reducing staff burnout. Clinical populations of interest include those experiencing homelessness, mental illness and/or co-occurring substance use disorders, as well as populations that might best be served by mental health and substance abuse services integrated within primary care settings. Dr. Rollins has particular expertise in the implementation of assertive community treatment, illness management and recovery, supported employment, and integrated dual disorders treatment.
