Parent Coaching Training in Alabama

Previously, peer coach training was delivered through a self-paced online learning portal rather than a live, instructor-led format. While this approach increased accessibility and allowed participants to complete the coursework on their own schedules, it was a barrier to building momentum, fostering engagement, and creating the meaningful connections and peer support that naturally develop during live trainings.

We partnered with the Alabama Department of Mental Health Substance Use Services Division to deliver trainings to three cohorts of parents and caregivers affected by their child’s substance use. We provided them with the knowledge and skills needed to support their own family as well as other families in similar situations. Over seven weeks, participants completed 15 self-paced modules, with each module varying in length up to one hour. In addition, they attended four live, virtual sessions that provided an introduction, check-ins, and a wrap-up to the training.

A total of 51 parents and caregivers in the state of Alabama received the Peer Coaching Training. All participants now have foundational knowledge of addiction, behavior change, and evidence-based family support strategies. These are skills they can use to support their own families, as well as other families in their communities.