“We Realised We Were Not in it by Ourselves.” Exploring Experiences of a Multidisciplinary Psychoeducational Workshop for Parents With a Child Diagnosed With Autism Spectrum Condition: A Thematic Analysis

Autism Spectrum Condition (ASC) brings distinct experiences for families, especially around social communication and understanding certain behaviours, which may require tailored support and approaches. Best practice guidelines emphasise the need for timely post-diagnostic support for parents. This study explores parents' experiences and perceived impact of a multidisciplinary psychoeducational workshop designed for parents of children with ASC, conducted in a child and young people's mental health service in the east of London, UK. Using a qualitative design with Thematic Analysis, semi-structured interviews were conducted with 29 parents and carers who had attended the workshop within the past year. Findings revealed that parents found the workshop valuable, both for acquiring practical strategies to support their child and for fostering a sense of community. Some participants expressed a desire for earlier intervention and emphasised the need for follow-up support. Overall, parents reported increased understanding of their child's condition, which contributed to greater acceptance and improved family dynamics. The findings suggest that such interventions may enhance parental confidence, reduce household stress, and positively impact both child and parent wellbeing. These insights highlight the importance of accessible, ongoing support for families navigating ASC-related challenges.