5 - (SYM 104) Examining the Use of Evidence-based Strategies Among Teen Peer Advisers Supporting Teen Users in a Digital Mental Health Application

With approximately 70% of youth estimated to be “online”, the proliferation of digital and text-based programs relying on peer (i.e., non-specialist) advisers represents an opportunity to reach youth who are at risk for mental health problems. Yet, limited evidence has examined how effectively trained teen peer providers utilize evidence-based strategies to provide support to teen users seeking help online. The current study will examine how teen peer advisers from a community-based, digital mental health application provide mental health support to teen users. As part of this digital mental health application, teen peer advisers are trained in evidence-based clinical strategies and supervised live by licensed mental health professionals. One hundred teen peer adviser-user exchanges will be examined using validated behavioral coding schemes associated with evidence-based strategies. Text exchanges will be coded to capture peer advisers’ use of motivational interviewing strategies and active listening skills. Results will describe teen peer adviser and user characteristics, including the type of mental health concerns reflected in text exchanges, and descriptive statistics capturing adherence to specific behavioral markers in compliance with evidence-based strategies. Implications will be discussed, including directions for future research to support training and adherence of evidence-based interventions among peer advisers.