Parent advocates in children's mental health: program implementation processes and considerations

Children's mental health service systems are increasingly utilizing peer support services to support families experiencing serious child mental illness. The literature provides few detailed accounts of such peer-based approaches. This study qualitatively examined the approaches and processes of "parent advocate" programs implemented in two Ohio counties for children served through publicly funded mental health services. Descriptions of each county's program, the background and roles of parent advocates, reasons families decline advocate services, and challenges to advocates' work with families are provided. Implications for the field in developing clear and effective administrative and practice structures for peer support services are discussed.