Abstract
This study investigates the feasibility and impact of the ParentingWell Learning Collaborative (PWLC) model in supporting mental health practitioners in implementing the family-focused ParentingWell practice approach with adults with mental illness. An exploratory design and qualitative methods were employed. Practitioners (n = 29) participated in in-person orientation, training and debriefing sessions; virtual coaching sessions; and via an interactive online hub. Researchers obtained data on participant engagement and satisfaction, and participants’ reports of use, helpfulness, intention to use and impact. Participants were engaged in and highly satisfied with the PWLC. They deployed PWLC skills, tools and resources with parents. Evidence of impact was provided at the personal, practice and organizational levels. This study provides preliminary support for the feasibility and impact of the PWLC. Clear specification of a theoretically-based training model for practitioners is an essential step in adapting, implementing and testing interventions in new contexts .
Highlights
Individuals with mental illness in the US are as likely as other adults to be parents (Nicholson et al, 2004)
Parents with mental illness are extremely vulnerable to the loss of contact with or custody of their children
The specific goal of this study is to investigate the feasibility and explore the preliminary impact of the ParentingWell Learning Collaborative model in supporting practitioners of all types in scaling out and scaling up a new practice approach to working with adults with mental illness who are parents (Movsisyan et al, 2019)
Summary
Individuals with mental illness in the US are as likely as other adults to be parents (Nicholson et al, 2004). Parents with mental illness are extremely vulnerable to the loss of contact with or custody of their children (Friesen et al, 2009; Kaplan et al, 2019; Powell et al, 2020; Powell & Nicholson, 2019). “Failure” in the parenting role, whether attributed by others when custody is lost or perceived by parents themselves, when they feel “ineffective” or disengaged from children, undermines community engagement for adults and, likely, negatively impacts health and function, and employment (Reupert et al, 2015b). The impact of parental mental illness for both adults and children is undoubtedly magnified when illness goes untreated and parents do not receive appropriate, accessible support (Reupert & Maybery, 2007)
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