Abstract
This paper addresses the mental health concerns of millions of children across the United States; especially those with diagnosis of Emotional and Behavioral Disorders. This researcher used a qualitative research design to obtain the perceptions of caregivers who have children placed in day treatment programs. This researcher used an exploratory design with action research theory. Action research theory was used in the hopes that clinicians would empower clients, caregivers, and families. The researcher used an open-ended interview technique to collect data through a qualitative questionnaire with participants, lasting about 15 minutes. The questions that were asked pertained to the perceptions of caregivers whose children receive day treatment services. Inductive coding was used to find common themes in the caregivers' responses. The two themes found among all three caregivers' perspectives was support for the child, and communication. Each caregiver mentioned that day treatment programs provide support either for their child, or for the family. Communication came up as a need for improvement between clinicians and caregivers and possibly between caregiver and child. Caregivers were empowered to be involved in communication with professionals however, may require additional support in doing so.