Adapting compassionate mind training into guided self-help for parents of autistic children

Parents of autistic children (PAC) are at increased risk of psychological distress, including shame and self-criticism. Compassion-focused therapy (CFT) is a recommended transdiagnostic intervention for such difficulties, but to date, there is limited research around the use of CFT with PAC. The present study aimed to explore the adaptations needed for a guided self-help CFT intervention for wellbeing, and the potential factors influencing future implementation during feasibility testing, through engagement with relevant stakeholders.

A two-stage qualitative research design aimed to (1) extract and configure stakeholder feedback for adaptations and (2) understand stakeholder views regarding the anticipated factors influencing implementation of the CFT resource during future feasibility testing.

Five iterative rounds of stakeholder feedback and intervention refinement were facilitated, using focus groups and written commentary with PAC (n = 7), clinical psychologists working within children's autism services (n = 4) and a CFT expert (n = 1). Directed content analysis supported extraction of adaptation suggestions during each feedback round. Framework analysis was employed to all focus group data to meet the second research aim.

Compassionate Mind Training for Parents of Autistic Children (CMT-PAC) guided self-help intervention was developed. Two key concepts from the framework analysis were recognised across focus groups: 'personal and social context of parents' and 'barriers and facilitators to engagement'.

Stakeholders appeared optimistic about the use of CMT-PAC within a future feasibility study. However, some potential issues were raised relating to how CMT-PAC could be implemented amongst the target population. Implications for research and clinical practice are discussed.