Connecting With a Parent Support Group

Rhode Island offers several parent support groups and organizations that provide help, education, and community for parents and caregivers dealing with their children's behavioral health concerns.

Local Support Groups and Organizations

1. Parent Support Network
   • Description: Provides support groups and resources for parents and caregivers of children with behavioral health issues.
   • Programs: Includes support groups, webinars, and resources.
2. Rhode Island Parent Information Network (RIPIN)
   • Description: Provides workshops, advocacy, support groups, and resources for families of children with special needs.
   • Services: Includes information on special education, healthcare, and support resources.
     
     The RI Department of Health (RIDOH) contracts with the Rhode Island Parent Information Network (RIPIN) for Peer Professional Support Services to support the Title V Program in ensuring a quality system of health care for Children and Youth with Special Health Care Needs (CYSHCN). Through the employment of families of CYSHCN, RIPIN provides training to individuals who have actual life experience to assist other families of CYSHCN. Specific areas of Peer Resource Specialist support include the administration of a comprehensive resource, information, and referral system; training, education, peer support, and system navigation. In addition, the Peer Resource Specialists promote the values of cultural diversity, family-centered systems, and family and professional partnerships. RIPIN is also the federally designated Family to Family (F2F) Health Information Center for the State of Rhode Island. RIPIN remains committed to supporting and empowering all individuals, both in our workplace and in our community.
     
     A guide to finding services for children with special needs in Rhode Island is available in Family Voices’ Connecting the Dots
3. Rhode Island Department of Children, Youth, and Families (DCYF)
   • Description: The Rhode Island Department of Children, Youth & Families (DCYF) Support and Response Unit (SRU) is a resource for families who are feeling overwhelmed or need assistance accessing home and community-based services for a variety of needs. The Department’s Family Care Community Partnerships (FCCPs) are prevention-focused providers bringing community-based services to children and families.
   • Services: SRU connects families with local specialized service providers to help families build a stronger, brighter future. Call 1-888-RI-Famly (1-888-743-2659).
     FCCPs partner with families and communities to increase the overall well-being of families.
4. The Autism Project
   • Description: Supports families with children on the autism spectrum through educational resources, parent training, and community events.
   • Programs: Offers workshops and support groups for parents and caregivers.
5. NAMI Rhode Island (National Alliance on Mental Illness)
   • Description: Provides support groups, educational programs, and advocacy for families dealing with mental health issues.
   • Programs: Includes family-to-family education programs and peer support groups.
6. The Rhode Island Family Court’s Family Support Program
   • Description: Offers resources and support for families involved in family court, including parenting support and educational programs.

Local Community Centers and Libraries

1. Community Centers: Many community centers and public libraries host support groups, workshops, and educational events for parents and caregivers. Check their event calendars for programs related to behavioral health.
2. Churches and Religious Organizations: Some churches and religious groups offer parenting support groups and resources for families dealing with behavioral health challenges.

National Resources

The following resources are available for foster, kinship, and adoptive families from the National Center for Adoption Competent Mental Health Services:

Utilizing Peer Support to Increase Access to Mental Health Services