Single-Session Consultations for Parents: A Preliminary Investigation

Abstract

Many parents want child-rearing information and emotional support from mental health professionals but are reluctant to attend group parenting classes or commit to long-term counseling. This study evaluated the efficacy of a specific, brief parent consultation intervention. Preliminary data were collected during routine single-session parenting consultations offered through a community agency. Preconsultation and postconsultation data from 21 of 33 (63.6%) consultees were analyzed using two-tailed paired-sample t tests with Bonferroni adjustments. Results, based on parent responses to a 17-item Likert-type questionnaire, indicated that parents rated themselves as less stressed and more capable of handling their children’s behaviors following their single-session consultation. Satisfaction ratings and qualitative data were consistent with self-ratings, suggesting that parents had very positive reactions to their brief consultation experiences. Discussion focused on the limits of this investigation and recommendations for more rigorous research, including a more diverse sample as well as a waiting list control group, in this potentially important practice area for family and school counselors.