Resources

Despite the growing use of family peer advocates (FPA) nationwide, little data is available on the ‘nuts and bolts’ of FPA service delivery within family support services programs. New research from the IDEAS Center better defines the work of FPAs, including what services are delivered, and how they are being delivered. This research, which explores the use of this service delivery model as part of an array of mental health services for children with serious emotional disturbance, begins to fill the gap on how to implement a high-quality family support services (FSS) program and develop a strong family peer advocate workforce. These supportive services for families — when added to the delivery of effective treatments — can create a package of mental health care that is likely to improve outcomes for children and families.