Due to the rise in mental health crises among children in Minnesota, CASCW researchers teamed up with the Minnesota Department of Human Services (DHS), AspireMN, and the Metro Health and Medical Preparedness Coalition (a group of provider organizations serving the 7-county Twin Cities metropolitan area) to study how children with serious mental or behavioral health needs—and their families—are supported during their care journey, especially given the difficulties of accessing long-term care, like in hospital emergency rooms.

The study used qualitative methods, including reviewing anonymous case records, interviewing parents or guardians, and holding focus groups with staff who work with these children. The final report, titled Getting to Yes: What Works in Supporting Children with Complex Mental and Behavioral Health Needs, was released in February 2025. The report was visually translated into one-page summaries for distribution to child welfare and social work professionals throughout Minnesota.