Co-Development of a Group-Based Parenting Program for Parents of Youth in Psychiatric Residential Treatment

Youth in psychiatric residential treatment (RT) are a highly vulnerable population in which parent involvement is critical to optimizing long-term outcomes. However, existing parent programs rarely address the unique challenges faced by families navigating RT. This study aimed to identify parent support needs and develop an adapted parenting program, Parenting Wisely for RT (PW^RT). Using qualitative interviews with parents and input from an RT staff advisory board, we explored the informational, instructional, and emotional support needs of families with youth in RT. Findings guided the development of PW^RT, a 6-week program that combines web-based modules (i.e., existing parent training program) with facilitated parent groups (i.e., adapted component). Parents expressed needs for education, skill generalization to complex RT-related situations, and reduction of social isolation. The advisory board co-developed the parent groups to include strengths-based, real-time skill practice, peer connection, and tailored psychoeducation that fosters shared learning and addresses challenges unique to the RT context. Facilitators provide coaching and help parents apply skills in diverse family situations, enhancing engagement and relevance. PW^RT represents a promising adaptation of parent training for families with youth in RT, designed to enhance parent knowledge, skills, and connectedness. Future research should evaluate its feasibility, effectiveness, and implementation to support families during and after RT.