Protocol for a randomised pilot study of a novel Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT) 're-implementation'...

Area of Science:

• Child Psychology
• Clinical Psychology
• Implementation Science

Background:

• Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT) is an effective treatment, but many trained clinicians in Aotearoa/New Zealand do not regularly deliver it.
• Barriers to PCIT delivery include lack of equipment and professional support.
• This study addresses the need to overcome stalled implementation efforts for PCIT.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the feasibility, acceptability, and cultural responsiveness of study methods and intervention components for re-implementing PCIT.
• To collect variance data for a future larger trial.
• To prepare for embedding ongoing PCIT delivery in community settings.

Main Methods:

• A pragmatic, parallel-arm, randomized controlled pilot trial comparing a novel 're-implementation' intervention with a refresher training control.
• Intervention components systematically developed using implementation theory to address barriers.
• Intervention includes equipment, a senior co-worker, and optional consultation group for 6 months.

Main Results:

• The study will report on the feasibility of recruitment and trial procedures.
• Clinician acceptability of the intervention package and data collection methods will be assessed.
• Clinician adoption of PCIT will be measured.

Conclusions:

• This pilot RCT will refine knowledge on embedding ongoing PCIT delivery in community settings.
• Results will inform strategies to overcome barriers to PCIT implementation.
• The study aims to increase access to effective PCIT for children and families.