Coping Power at the REACH School Network: A pilot feasibility study

School-based health centres (SBHCs) provide developmental and mental health care to children with socioeconomic disparities. We piloted a validated behavioural intervention called Coping Power (CP) for children with disruptive behaviour through our SBHC program. The objective of this pilot study was to examine the feasibility of CP in the SBHC setting.

All parent/caregiver and child dyads enrolled in CP from 2018 to 2019 and 2021 to 2022 were invited to participate in the study. Demographic information and behaviour rating scales were collected at baseline. Feasibility metrics included attendance and satisfaction survey responses.

A total of 31 parent/caregiver-child dyads were included. Approximately 40% of families had an annual income of <$49,999. Regarding attendance, 22/31 children/parent/caregiver dyads (70.9%) missed ≤2 sessions. Thirteen parents/caregivers completed the CP satisfaction survey and indicated that they were either 'somewhat' (n = 4) or 'very satisfied' (n = 9) with the program. Of the 18 children who completed the satisfaction survey, 13 (72.2%) shared that either the 'sort of' or 'for sure' group helped them cope with their anger better.

This pilot study found that CP delivered within the SBHCs was feasible. Improving access to CP for disadvantaged children may improve mental health outcomes.