Adapting the Parent Connector program for caregivers of adults with SMI: the Family Connector experience

This paper describes the adaptation of the Parent Connectors program into the Family Connectors (FC) program for caregivers of young adults with serious mental illness (SMI) recently discharged from a First Episode Psychosis (FEP) program. The adaptation process, conducted collaboratively with family peer professionals, involved tailoring content, incorporating an outside approach (LEAP method), lengthening services as needed, and adding weekly peer supervision. The modifications aimed to improve intervention fit and support caregiver well-being. The authors document the adaptation process and changes, highlighting clinical considerations and advancing research on peer-to-peer support for caregivers of adults with SMI.

Paige E. Cervantes, Charlotte Gendler, Lori Markowitz, Meggin Rose, Priscilla Shorter, Sally Mason, Tanya Hernandez, Kimberly E. Hoagwood