Our Parenting Programmes
Supporting Parents. Strengthening Families. Helping Children Thrive.
Every family is different, and there is no single “right way” to parent. Parenting can be rewarding, challenging, and sometimes overwhelming. Our evidence-based programmes are designed to support parents and carers at every stage of their child’s development, helping build stronger relationships, improve emotional wellbeing, and promote positive outcomes for children.
Our programmes are delivered by trained practitioners in a welcoming, non-judgemental environment where families can learn practical strategies, share experiences, and build confidence.
Ready to get started?
Choosing to seek support is a positive step towards strengthening your relationship with your child and building confidence in your parenting. Parenting is one of the most important roles we have, but it does not come with a manual. Every child is different, and even the most caring and committed parents can sometimes need a little extra support, guidance or a space to reflect.
Joining a parenting programme does not mean you are a bad parent — in fact, it shows that you care deeply about your child and are open to learning new ways to support them. Many parents tell us that attending a group helps them feel less alone, meet other parents who understand their experiences, and discover practical strategies that make everyday family life easier.
The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) recommends that parents are offered group parenting programmes as a first option where appropriate. Group programmes are recommended because they provide more than just parenting strategies — they create a supportive community where parents can share experiences, learn from one another and build confidence together in a safe, non-judgemental environment.
Which programme is right for me?
Every family is unique, and there is no single approach that works for everyone. Our team will help you think about your family’s needs and find the support that feels like the best fit.
As a guide:
Incredible Years® Parenting Group
A great starting point for many families. This group supports parents of children aged 4–11 who may be experiencing difficulties with behaviour, emotions, attention, or relationships. It provides practical strategies, peer support and the opportunity to learn alongside other parents.
Incredible Years® Autism and Language Delays (IY-ASLD)
Designed for parents and caregivers of autistic children or children with social communication and language differences. This programme focuses on understanding your child’s unique way of communicating, strengthening connection and supporting development through play and positive interactions.
Guided Self-Help (GSH)
A flexible option for parents who would prefer individual support while working through practical parenting strategies at their own pace. This can be helpful for families who are unable to attend a group or who would benefit from a more personalised approach.
Personalised Individual Parenting Therapy (PIPT)
A one-to-one intervention involving parent and child, offering tailored coaching and support to strengthen the parent-child relationship and practise strategies together.
Systemic Family Practice
A therapeutic approach that supports families to understand relationships, communication and patterns within the family. This may be helpful when difficulties are affecting several family members or when improving family relationships is a key goal.
Therapeutic Parenting Programme
A relationship-focused programme for parents and caregivers who want to better understand their child’s emotional needs, especially where children may have experienced trauma, attachment difficulties or early adversity.
You do not need to know which programme is right before contacting us. Our team will listen to your experiences, answer your questions and help you identify the support that best matches your family’s needs.
Taking the first step can feel difficult, but reaching out for support is a sign of strength, commitment and care for your child.
You know your child best. We are here to support you in understanding them, building on your strengths and finding approaches that work for your family.
To find out more or make a referral, please contact our team or speak with a professional involved in your child’s care.
Click on each course button below to find out more.
About the Incredible Years programme
The Incredible Years® is an internationally recognised, evidence-based parenting programme developed by clinical psychologist Professor Carolyn Webster-Stratton. It has been used for over 40 years to support families and is recommended by the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) for helping children with behavioural, emotional and social difficulties.
The programme combines research with practical, everyday parenting strategies, using real-life video examples, group discussion and guided practice to help caregivers strengthen relationships with their children and build positive behaviour.
What happens in a group?
Sessions are interactive, welcoming and supportive. Rather than being lectures, they encourage discussion, reflection and shared learning.
During the programme you can expect:
- Short video examples that demonstrate different parenting approaches.
- Group discussions with other parents and caregivers.
- Practical activities and role play to build confidence.
- Weekly home practice to try out new skills with your child.
- Support from experienced group leaders throughout the programme.
Many parents tell us that one of the most valuable parts of the programme is meeting other families who have had similar experiences.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can attend?
Parents, carers, foster carers, kinship carers and grandparents who have a significant caring role for a child aged 4–11 living in the London Borough of Lewisham.
Do I need a diagnosis for my child?
No. Some children have a diagnosis such as ADHD, while others may simply be experiencing behavioural or emotional challenges. The programme supports families based on need, not diagnosis alone.
Will I have to speak in front of everyone?
You are encouraged to join discussions, but there is no pressure to share anything you are uncomfortable discussing. Many parents find their confidence grows naturally as the programme progresses.
Is the programme confidential?
Yes. We ask everyone attending to respect the privacy of other families so that the group remains a safe and supportive space.
What if I miss a session?
We understand that life can be unpredictable. Please let your group leaders know as soon as possible so they can discuss the best way to help you keep up with the programme.
Is there homework?
There is no formal homework. Instead, you’ll be encouraged to practise one or two simple strategies at home each week and reflect on what worked well.
How long is the programme?
The Incredible Years parenting programme usually runs weekly over 12 weeks.
Does it really work?
The Incredible Years programme has been evaluated in numerous research studies across the world and has been shown to improve parent-child relationships, reduce challenging behaviour and increase parents’ confidence in managing everyday situations.
What if a group isn’t right for me?
If a group setting doesn’t meet your family’s needs, we also offer Personalised Individual Parenting Therapy (PIPT) and Guided Self-Help (GSH). We can help you decide which option is the best fit.
Did you know?
- The Incredible Years programme has been delivered in more than 30 countries.
- It uses real-life video examples rather than lectures, making strategies easy to understand and apply at home.
- Small changes in everyday interactions can make a big difference to children’s behaviour, confidence and emotional wellbeing.
- Parents often tell us they leave the programme feeling more connected to their child and less alone in their parenting journey.
- Many of the skills learned during the programme continue to be useful as children grow and develop.
“Small positive changes, practised consistently, can have a lasting impact on family life.”
About the Incredible Years® Autism and Language Delays Programme
The Incredible Years® Autism and Language Delays programme is an evidence-based parenting programme developed by Professor Carolyn Webster-Stratton and colleagues. It is designed specifically for parents and caregivers of young autistic children and children with social communication or language delays.
The programme focuses on strengthening the parent-child relationship through play, communication and positive interactions. Rather than trying to change who a child is, it helps caregivers understand their child’s unique strengths and needs while developing strategies that support communication, emotional regulation and everyday routines.
What happens in an IY-ASC group?
Sessions provide a welcoming and supportive environment where parents and caregivers can learn together and share experiences.
Throughout the programme you will:
- Watch video examples of real parent-child interactions.
- Learn practical strategies to encourage communication, play and emotional connection.
- Explore ways to support your child’s social and emotional development.
- Share ideas and experiences with other families who understand similar challenges.
- Practise new strategies between sessions with guidance from experienced group leaders.
The programme celebrates each child’s individuality and encourages parents to build on what their child already enjoys and does well.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is the programme for?
The programme is designed for parents and caregivers of young autistic children or children with social communication or language delays. Your practitioner will discuss whether this programme is the right fit for your family.
Does my child need a diagnosis?
Not always. Some families join while their child is awaiting assessment or has emerging social communication or language differences. Referrals are based on individual need and local service criteria.
Will my child attend the sessions?
Most sessions are attended by parents or caregivers. The focus is on giving you practical skills and strategies to use during everyday interactions with your child at home.
What will I learn?
You’ll explore ways to:
- Develop enjoyable play routines.
- Encourage communication and interaction.
- Support emotional regulation.
- Build confidence during daily routines.
- Respond to challenging situations using positive, relationship-based approaches.
Will I have to share personal experiences?
There is no pressure to speak if you don’t feel comfortable. Many parents find it reassuring to hear from other families and often become more confident as the programme progresses.
Is the programme evidence-based?
Yes. The programme has been developed from research into child development, autism and positive parenting. It continues to be evaluated internationally and is grounded in evidence-informed practice.
What if group support isn’t right for me?
We understand that every family is different. If a group isn’t the best option, we’ll discuss alternative support that may better meet your family’s needs.
Did you know?
- The programme places a strong emphasis on following your child’s lead during play, helping to build communication and connection.
- Parents often discover that small changes to everyday interactions can make routines more enjoyable and less stressful.
- Video modelling allows parents to observe practical strategies that can be adapted to suit their own family.
- Many families value the opportunity to meet others who understand the experiences of raising an autistic child or a child with communication differences.
- The programme focuses on recognising and building on each child’s individual strengths and interests.
Every child communicates differently. By understanding and responding to your child’s unique way of interacting, you can strengthen your relationship and support their development in meaningful ways.
About Personalised Individual Parenting Therapy (PIPT)
Personalised Individual Parenting Therapy (PIPT) is a tailored, one-to-one intervention designed to meet the unique needs of your family. Unlike a group programme, PIPT brings together the parent or caregiver, child and therapist to work collaboratively on strengthening relationships, building confidence and developing practical strategies that can be used in everyday life.
Using evidence-based parenting approaches, sessions are personalised to focus on your family’s strengths, goals and the challenges that matter most to you. Through coaching, observation and guided practice, you’ll receive support that is responsive to your child’s individual needs and your parenting journey.
What can I expect?
PIPT provides dedicated one-to-one support in a safe, supportive and collaborative environment. Sessions are tailored to your family’s goals and give you the opportunity to practise new skills with guidance from your therapist.
During the programme you may:
- Take part in parent-child coaching sessions.
- Learn practical strategies to strengthen your relationship with your child.
- Develop approaches that support emotional regulation and positive behaviour.
- Explore ways to respond confidently to challenging situations.
- Celebrate progress and build on your family’s existing strengths.
Because every family is different, your therapist will adapt the sessions to suit your child’s needs and your individual circumstances.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is PIPT for?
PIPT is suitable for parents, carers, foster carers, kinship carers and grandparents who have a significant caring role for a child aged 4–11 living in the London Borough of Lewisham.
Will my child attend the sessions?
Yes. PIPT involves both the parent or caregiver and child, allowing strategies to be practised together with support from your therapist.
How is PIPT different from a parenting group?
PIPT is delivered individually, allowing sessions to focus entirely on your family’s needs, goals and circumstances. This personalised approach means strategies can be adapted specifically for you and your child.
What kinds of difficulties can PIPT help with?
PIPT can support families experiencing a range of challenges, including:
- Difficult or challenging behaviour.
- Emotional regulation difficulties.
- Strengthening parent-child relationships.
- Building positive routines.
- Increasing confidence in managing everyday situations.
How long does the programme last?
The number of sessions will depend on your family’s individual needs. Your therapist will discuss this with you before the programme begins.
Will I have activities to practise at home?
Yes. Between sessions, you’ll be encouraged to use the strategies you’ve learned in everyday interactions with your child. Your therapist will review these with you and help adapt them as needed.
Is PIPT evidence-based?
Yes. PIPT draws on evidence-based parenting approaches and therapeutic techniques that support positive relationships, child development and parent confidence.
How do I know if PIPT is the right option?
Following your assessment, your practitioner will discuss the support options available and recommend the intervention that best meets your family’s needs.
Did you know?
- Children learn best through positive, responsive relationships with the important adults in their lives.
- Practising strategies together during sessions allows parents to receive immediate support and feedback.
- Small, consistent changes in everyday interactions can have a lasting impact on family relationships and children’s emotional wellbeing.
- Every PIPT programme is personalised, recognising that no two children or families are the same.
- Building on your family’s existing strengths is just as important as developing new skills.
Strong relationships are at the heart of children’s wellbeing. PIPT provides personalised support to help you build confidence, strengthen your connection with your child and create positive change together.
About Guided Self-Help (GSH)
Guided Self-Help (GSH) is an evidence-based parenting intervention designed for caregivers who would benefit from practical support in a more flexible format. Rather than attending a group, you’ll work through a structured programme with guidance from a trained practitioner, allowing you to learn and practise new skills at a pace that fits around family life.
The programme focuses on helping you better understand your child’s behaviour, strengthen your relationship, and develop practical strategies that can make everyday parenting feel more manageable.
What can I expect?
Guided Self-Help combines independent learning with regular support from a practitioner. Together, you’ll explore parenting strategies that are tailored to your family’s needs and discuss how to apply them in everyday situations.
The programme may include:
- Easy-to-follow written resources and worksheets.
- Regular one-to-one support sessions with a practitioner.
- Practical strategies to try at home.
- Opportunities to reflect on what’s working well and any challenges you’re experiencing.
- Personalised guidance to help you achieve your family’s goals.
Because the programme is flexible, sessions can be planned around your availability wherever possible.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Guided Self-Help for?
GSH is suitable for parents, carers, foster carers, kinship carers and grandparents who have a significant caring role for a child aged 4–11 living in the London Borough of Lewisham.
Do I need to attend a group?
No. Guided Self-Help is a one-to-one intervention, making it a good option if group sessions are not suitable or practical for you.
How long does the programme last?
The number of sessions varies depending on your family’s needs. Your practitioner will discuss this with you at the start of the programme.
Will I receive support while completing the programme?
Yes. Although you’ll work through materials independently, your practitioner will meet with you regularly to provide guidance, answer questions and help you put strategies into practice.
Is there homework?
You’ll be encouraged to practise strategies between sessions. These activities are designed to fit naturally into everyday family life rather than feel like formal homework.
What kinds of difficulties can GSH help with?
Guided Self-Help can support families who are experiencing challenges such as:
- Difficult behaviour at home.
- Emotional outbursts.
- Problems with routines.
- Managing boundaries and expectations.
- Building confidence in parenting.
Is Guided Self-Help evidence-based?
Yes. Guided Self-Help is based on evidence-informed parenting approaches that have been shown to improve parent confidence, strengthen parent-child relationships and support positive behaviour.
How do I know if GSH is right for me?
Following your assessment, your practitioner will discuss the different support options available and help you choose the intervention that best meets your family’s needs.
Did you know?
- Guided Self-Help offers many of the same evidence-based parenting strategies used in face-to-face programmes, but with greater flexibility.
- Research shows that parents can make meaningful changes through supported self-help when they receive regular guidance from a trained practitioner.
- Even small changes in daily routines and interactions can lead to lasting improvements in children’s behaviour and family wellbeing.
- Many parents value the opportunity to work at their own pace while still having personalised support when they need it.
Parenting doesn’t come with a manual—but you don’t have to figure it out alone. Guided Self-Help provides practical strategies and professional support to help you build confidence and strengthen your relationship with your child.
About the Therapeutic Parenting Programme
The Therapeutic Parenting Programme is designed to help parents and caregivers better understand their child’s behaviour through the lens of relationships, attachment and emotional development. It offers practical, compassionate strategies to support children who may have experienced early adversity, trauma, loss or other experiences that have affected their ability to feel safe, regulate their emotions and build trusting relationships.
The programme encourages parents to look beyond behaviour and consider what their child may be communicating through their actions. By strengthening the parent-child relationship, caregivers can help children feel safe, understood and supported to thrive.
What can I expect?
The programme provides a supportive environment where you can learn, reflect and develop practical strategies for everyday family life.
During the programme you will:
- Gain a deeper understanding of attachment, trauma and child development.
- Learn why children sometimes communicate through their behaviour.
- Explore therapeutic parenting approaches that promote safety, connection and trust.
- Develop strategies to support emotional regulation and reduce conflict.
- Build confidence in responding calmly and consistently to challenging situations.
- Reflect on your own experiences and how these can influence parenting.
Sessions encourage discussion, shared learning and opportunities to practise strategies between meetings.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is the programme for?
The programme is suitable for parents, carers, foster carers, kinship carers, adopters and special guardians who are caring for children who may have experienced trauma, attachment difficulties or emotional and behavioural challenges.
What is therapeutic parenting?
Therapeutic parenting is a relationship-based approach that focuses on connection before correction. It helps caregivers respond to children’s underlying emotional needs while providing consistent boundaries and support.
Does my child need a diagnosis?
No. Children do not need a diagnosis to benefit from therapeutic parenting. The programme is based on understanding individual needs rather than labels.
Will my child attend the sessions?
Most sessions are attended by parents and caregivers. The strategies you learn are then used during everyday interactions with your child.
Will I have to share personal experiences?
There is no expectation to share anything you feel uncomfortable discussing. You are welcome to participate in a way that feels right for you.
Is the programme evidence-informed?
Yes. The programme draws on research in attachment theory, child development, trauma-informed practice and neuroscience to support positive relationships and emotional wellbeing.
How long is the programme?
The number of sessions will vary depending on how the programme is delivered. Your practitioner will explain what to expect before the programme begins.
What if I need additional support?
If further support would be beneficial, we’ll discuss the options available and work with you to identify the most appropriate intervention for your family.
Did you know?
- Children’s behaviour is often a form of communication, especially when they are struggling to express their feelings with words.
- Feeling safe and connected is an important foundation for learning, emotional regulation and healthy relationships.
- Therapeutic parenting focuses on understanding the reasons behind behaviour while maintaining clear, consistent boundaries.
- Small moments of connection throughout the day can have a lasting impact on a child’s emotional wellbeing.
- Looking after yourself as a parent is an important part of supporting your child.
Connection is at the heart of therapeutic parenting. When children feel safe, understood and supported, they are better able to learn, regulate their emotions and develop positive relationships.
About Systemic Family Practice
Systemic Family Practice (SFP) is a therapeutic approach that supports families to better understand their relationships, communication and the challenges they may be experiencing together. Rather than focusing on one individual, systemic practice explores how family members influence and support one another, recognising that positive change can happen when families work together.
Sessions provide a safe, respectful and non-judgemental space where everyone has the opportunity to be heard. Working collaboratively with a therapist, families can develop new ways of understanding difficulties, strengthen relationships and build on their existing strengths.
What can I expect?
Every family is unique, so sessions are tailored to meet your family’s individual needs and goals.
During Systemic Family Practice you may:
- Explore family relationships and patterns of communication.
- Develop a greater understanding of one another’s experiences and perspectives.
- Strengthen family relationships and emotional connections.
- Learn new ways of managing conflict and resolving problems together.
- Build on your family’s strengths to create positive, lasting change.
Depending on your family’s needs, sessions may involve parents or caregivers, children, siblings or other important family members.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Systemic Family Practice for?
Systemic Family Practice is for families who would benefit from support to strengthen relationships, improve communication or work through challenges together. Your practitioner will discuss whether this approach is suitable for your family.
Who attends the sessions?
This depends on your family’s needs. Some sessions may involve the whole family, while others may include parents, caregivers, siblings or individual family members. Your therapist will work with you to decide who should attend each session.
What kinds of difficulties can Systemic Family Practice help with?
Families may access Systemic Family Practice for support with:
- Family conflict or communication difficulties.
- Emotional or behavioural challenges.
- Changes within the family, such as separation or bereavement.
- Strengthening family relationships.
- Managing stressful life events or transitions.
Will anyone be blamed?
No. Systemic Family Practice is based on curiosity, collaboration and understanding. The aim is not to find fault or assign blame, but to help families understand one another and work together towards positive change.
Is everything discussed confidential?
Confidentiality will be explained at the start of therapy. Your therapist will discuss how information is shared and any situations where confidentiality cannot be maintained, such as concerns about safety.
How long will we receive support?
The number and frequency of sessions will depend on your family’s needs and agreed goals. Your therapist will discuss this with you as part of the planning process.
What if some family members don’t want to attend?
It’s common for family members to have different feelings about attending therapy. Your therapist will discuss the best approach with you and work collaboratively to make sessions as comfortable and helpful as possible.
Did you know?
- Families often discover strengths and solutions they hadn’t previously recognised.
- Improving communication can have a positive impact on every member of the family.
- Systemic Family Practice focuses on relationships rather than placing blame on one individual.
- Small changes in the way family members communicate and respond to one another can lead to meaningful, lasting improvements.
- Every family’s story is different, and therapy is tailored to your family’s unique experiences, strengths and goals.
Healthy relationships are built through understanding, communication and connection. Systemic Family Practice helps families work together to create positive change that lasts.
“Is this programme right for me?”
- Our Parenting Support Service is available to parents and carers living in Lewisham who would like support to strengthen relationships, build confidence, and improve family wellbeing.You may be suitable for referral if you:
- Are a parent, carer, guardian, or kinship carer of a child or young person.
- Live in Lewisham or have responsibility for a child attending a Lewisham school.
- Would like support with parenting challenges, emotional wellbeing, behaviour, communication, or family relationships.
- Are willing to participate in a group programme or therapeutic intervention where appropriate.
Please NoteSome programmes have specific eligibility criteria, including:- Child age ranges.
- Presenting needs.
- Referral pathway requirements.
- Availability of spaces.
*Systemic Family Practice referrals are generally accepted for families where there are concerns relating to emotional wellbeing, depression, self-harm, family relationships, or complex relational difficulties. An assessment will help determine suitability.Not Sure Which Programme is Right for You?If you are unsure whether you meet the criteria, please contact our team. We will discuss your circumstances and help identify the most appropriate support for you and your family.
Further Reading
- NHS – Practical advice on child development, behaviour, and family wellbeing through the NHS pregnancy, baby and child health pages.
- The Solihull Approach – Resources to help parents understand children’s behaviour, relationships, and emotional development.
- Anna Freud – Information on children’s mental health, resilience, and parenting. Anna Freud Resources for Families.
- NSPCC – Advice on positive parenting and keeping children safe through the NSPCC support for parents.