4 - (SYM 84) Coaching Spanish-speaking Caregivers in PCIT: Therapist Perspectives and Recommendations

Abstract Body
Childhood behavior problems are highly prevalent, and if left untreated, can lead to a plethora of negative outcomes later in life for the child, family, and society. Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT) is an evidence-based behavioral parent training intervention that has been shown to significantly reduce behavior problems in young children ages 2-7. PCIT uses in-vivo coaching as a primary intervention strategy to support caregivers in learning how to effectively implement the behavioral skills taught in treatment. While various clinical trials have supported PCIT's efficacy when working with families of diverse backgrounds, few studies have examined how providers address the specific needs of Spanish-speaking families during PCIT coaching. This is concerning given that Latinx families are at an increased risk of lower engagement in mental healthcare treatment due to heightened levels of systemic stressors and barriers in comparison to their non-Hispanic White counterparts. In the current study, semi-structured interviews were conducted with bilingual PCIT therapists and trainers (N = 11) to identify themes regarding how coaching is delivered in English and Spanish. Rapid Qualitative Analysis was used to summarize, code, and analyze interviews. The following themes were identified and will be presented: 1) similarities and differences in working with English-speaking versus Spanish-speaking families, 2) challenges and facilitators when implementing PCIT coaching with Spanish-speaking families, and 3) considerations for working with Spanish-speaking families. Implications for training Spanish-speaking therapists to provide coaching in PCIT will be discussed.