Parent Peer Support Providers (PPSPs)
One of the 5 Core Needs of Foster and Kinship parents.
The Importance of Parent Peer Support Providers for Foster Parents
Foster parenting is both rewarding and challenging. Navigating the complexities of trauma, behavioral needs, case plans, and court systems can be overwhelming. This is where Parent Peer Support Providers (PPSPs) play a vital role. These individuals, often with lived experience in the child welfare system, provide emotional, informational, and practical support to foster parents. Their presence not only empowers foster families but also improves outcomes for the children in their care.
One of the most significant benefits of PPSPs is the sense of connection and understanding they bring. Foster parents often face isolation and emotional stress, and having someone who truly understands these challenges is invaluable. PPSPs can validate the foster parent’s feelings, offer encouragement, and share coping strategies. This emotional support reduces burnout and increases retention among foster caregivers.
In addition to emotional support, PPSPs offer practical guidance. They help foster parents understand and navigate the child welfare system, prepare for court appearances, comply with licensing requirements, and advocate for the needs of the children in their homes. Their experience allows them to provide real-world advice that professionals may not be able to offer.
Moreover, PPSPs help bridge communication between foster parents and caseworkers. By facilitating clearer, more effective dialogue, they can improve collaboration and ensure that everyone is focused on the best interest of the child. This often results in better placement stability and permanency outcomes.
In essence, Parent Peer Support Providers serve as mentors, advocates, and trusted allies for foster parents. Their role strengthens the foster care system by promoting caregiver resilience, enhancing child outcomes, and creating a more compassionate, informed community of support. For many foster families, having a PPSP is not just helpful—it’s transformative.
The content below has been provided by the Family-Run Executive Director Leadership Association.
Downloadable Resources
- FREDLA Family Engagement Outcomes and Related PPSP Functions 2023 (Parent Peer Support Provider) (445 downloads )
- FREDLA Roles by Intensity of Service_2023 (Parent Peer Support Provider) (457 downloads )
- FREDLA PPSP Activities Infographic 2023 (Parent Peer Support Provider) (443 downloads )
- FREDLA Continuum of Family Partnership in CMH_FREDLA 2023 (Parent Peer Support Provider) (412 downloads )
- FREDLA Outcomes that Matter CMH_FREDLA 2023 (Parent Peer Support Provider) (431 downloads )
Additional Resources Around the Web
National Federation of Families (NFFCMH)
Offers the only national certification for family/parent peer support specialists and provides extensive resources and training.
Valuable for parents to learn more about what is required to become a PPSP, and the value they bring.
Family Peer Support Success Stories
The NFF has provided success stories illustrating the impact of working with a parental peer support professional.
National Association of Peer Supporters (N.A.P.S.) – National Peer Directory
A searchable directory to find certified peer supporters by location, credentials, and areas of focus.
https://www.peersupportworks.org/community/connections/national-registry
HeyPeers – Find a Certified Peer Support Specialist
Connects individuals with trained peer supporters for affordable and accessible support.
https://www.heypeers.com/peer_supporters
G.E.A.R. Parent Network
Provides no-cost support to parents and families with children facing behavioral health challenges.
Casey Family Programs – Parent Partner Programs
Explores the value, research, impact, and application of parent partner programs in child welfare.