The family model in child and adult mental health services.

Introduction: This study is based on a development project among selected child and adult mental health services in Sweden. Its goal was quality enhancement by using a family approach. The Family Model (TFM) is a family-focused practice developed in Australia and implemented for several years. In accordance with trust-based research, experiences voiced by the family are investigated.

Aim: The aim of the study was to gain knowledge regarding the experiences of both youth and adult family members when using TFM under the supervision of child and adult mental health services.

Method: Eleven families were recruited and interviewed in focus groups or individually in a qualitative study based on principles of naturalistic inquiry.

Results: Family members found that the model provided them with the opportunity to deal preemptively with their issues. It worked well in conjunction with the mental health services they were being provided by giving them clear objectives. The presence of competent clinicians was considered essential for success.

Conclusion: The Family Model proved useful in mental health clinical practice in families with concurrent mental illness in youth and adults. Our findings may assist providers in developing a parallel family-focused practice that offers child and adult clinical services.