Telehealth Parenting Support for Child Trauma: Project Support Clinical Trial

This randomized controlled trial evaluates the effectiveness of Project Support, a telehealth-delivered parenting intervention designed to help caregivers mitigate the effects of child trauma. The study compares this program against standard case management services for families awaiting trauma-focused therapy.

Key Features:

• Targets caregivers of children aged 6-13 exposed to violence/maltreatment
• Provides brief skills training (4-6 sessions) via telehealth
• Focuses on improving emotional support and parenting self-efficacy
• Includes 100 participant families in a parallel-group design

The intervention teaches practical skills through role-playing exercises where caregivers learn to:

1. Actively listen to their child's concerns
2. Provide effective comfort and emotional support
3. Respond to challenging behaviors with confidence

Researchers will measure outcomes including parenting confidence, child psychological distress, and eventual engagement with trauma therapy services. The study builds on previous research showing Project Support's feasibility and aims to establish its efficacy for families on therapy waitlists.

Funded by NICHD and conducted at MUSC, this trial addresses a critical gap in brief, evidence-based support programs for trauma-affected families. Results may influence how healthcare systems support families during therapy wait times.