Implementation of an Attachment-Focused Blended Care Tool: Feasibility, Usability, and User Satisfaction Study

In recent decades, digital mental health interventions have expanded substantially. However, most digital interventions remain individually focused and primarily grounded in cognitive-behavioral approaches, while families experiencing caregiver-child relational difficulties may benefit from more integrative and attachment-informed care. The present study evaluated the early-stage implementation of FamilieLink, a newly developed attachment-based blended care intervention, focusing on key implementation outcomes: adoption, acceptability, appropriateness, and feasibility. FamilieLink was implemented in routine mental health services across Flanders. In total, 50 professionals actively used the intervention and 117 families were granted access, of whom 85 caregivers registered on the platform and 19 completed the full intervention. Quantitative and qualitative data from both caregivers and professionals were collected to examine user experiences, dropout, and implementation-related facilitators and barriers. Findings indicated that FamilieLink was generally well accepted by professionals and caregivers. Most professionals perceived the intervention as appropriate for addressing attachment-related difficulties within families. However, caregiver dropout rates (83.8%) were substantial, indicating challenges related to feasibility in real-world implementation. Moreover, despite positive attitudes toward FamilieLink, professionals frequently relied on familiar therapeutic approaches, suggesting barriers to adoption within routine clinical practice. Overall, these findings highlight both the potential and the challenges of implementing attachment-based blended care interventions in real-world mental health settings.