Presenter(s)

• Ana Arslan, School Psychology Doctoral Student, New Mexico State University
• Gabriela Montano, School Psychology Doctoral Student, New Mexico State University
• Staci Ballard, Assistant Professor, New Mexico State University
• Elsa Arroyos, Department Head, New Mexico State University

Abstract

Support groups offer a space for connection, shared experience, and skill building. For parents of children with disabilities, these groups can serve as a valuable outlet for emotional support and personal growth. By learning wellness strategies and sharing coping mechanisms, participants may experience improvements in their overall quality of life and parenting confidence. This project aims to evaluate the impact of two types of support group interventions for parents of children with disabilities. A parent-to-parent wellness support group will focus on addressing parents’ emotional and psychosocial needs through facilitated discussion, stress reduction strategies, and peer support. A skills-based support group will focus on equipping parents with knowledge and tools related to their child’s disability, special education rights, behavioral strategies, and navigating school systems. The primary goal is to determine whether participation in either support group model leads to measurable reductions in parental stress and anxiety.