Bridging the Gap: Research, Practice and Policy

Mental Health Connection's "Bridging the Gap" initiative is a multi-year, multi-disciplinary learning experience designed to connect the worlds of Research, Policy and Practice for mental health services in Tarrant County. The work began in June 2007 with a symposium that featured nationally renowned experts in research, practice, policy and system transformation. Initially, the focus is on determining proven mental health treatments for children and adolescents. Adult treatments will be added in the years ahead.

To continue the work started during the symposium, Mental Health Connection formed Learning Communities to research existing research-proven models of mental health care. Each group will spend six months focusing on a specific diagnostic area, reviewing existing research and looking for programs and practices that will work in Tarrant County. These groups will meet once a month for six months, completing their work with an executive summary of their findings and a recommendation for an evidence-based practice to be piloted in Tarrant County.

Initial Research
Learning Communities
Final Reports: Addictions, Externalizing and Internalizing Learning Communities
Learning Communities Blogs
2007 Bridging the Gap Symposium Information
2007 Bridging the Gap Symposium Evaluation