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Frequently Asked Questions

  • What is the Parent Empowerment Program (PEP)?
  • The PEP is a 10 week parenting curriculum that empowers parents with strategies for reclaiming power as authority figures in their home while building better relationships with their children.

  • Why should I register for this parenting class when there are others to choose from?
  • The PEP is more than just providing parents information.  The PEP is unique in its ability to help parents understand the psychology behind how they give up their power and strategies for change are provided.  This is followed up with efficient and effective parenting techniques.  There is no other parenting class similar in design.

  • Will the program fix my kid?
  • No, but you can.  We will show you a formula for change.  Parenting struggles that lead parents to pay for and attend parenting classes have usually developed over the course of years.  Understanding problematic patterns and reversing the negative effects takes time and numerous interventions.

  • Is the program “evidence based?” 
  • No.  “Evidence based” is a label given to programs that have gone through rigorous scientific evaluation for effectiveness in specific areas of interest.  This process takes years of research and usually includes a partnership with a college or university.  The PEP is a grassroots program developed in Clackamas County that has depended on its own research using testing tools that measure family functioning.  To date, we have collected 213 sample parents and the data “suggests” a significant change from pre and post scores.  (Link to research)

  • Will you cover ADHD, Depression, Autism, Adolescents, Oppositional Defiant Disorders, Learning Disabilities?
  • Yes and No. 

    “Yes” because all parents, regardless of their child’s struggles seem to give up their power in one or more of 13 ways.  Helping parents identify the ways they give up power and providing solutions goes a long way in helping parents support struggling children regardless of the disability. 

    “No” because we do not specifically tailor the program to address any one problem area in detail.  However, there are always opportunities throughout the course to ask specific questions pertaining to any issues you may be having as a parent.  If the facilitator is unable to address a specific question about a disability, there is a good chance another parent in the group can.

  • Are there classes in Spanish?
  • Yes.  And we have parent workbooks in Spanish too!

  • What does the class cost? 
  • The cost of the class when sponsored by an agency is $3999 per series.  Classes that are not sponsored will cost participants $199 per person.  This translates into $10 an hour.  Most family and individual therapy sessions cost over $100 per session.  For the same price as 2 therapy sessions, parents in the Parent Empowerment Program get 20 hours of services.  (Link to Hosting the Parent Empowerment Program)

  • Are there scholarships available for those who cannot afford services? 
  • Yes, but in all likelihood you will be asked to make a contribution of some sort.

  • What if I pay for the class and then don’t like it? 
  • You will have the first two weeks of classes to decide whether or not the class is a good fit for your parenting needs.  If after the second week you would like to discontinue, we will refund your entire cost.  After the second week, we will not be refunding payments for the class or prorating for the classes you did not attend.  If you cannot attend classes for emergency reasons, you can make up classes in future classes at no additional expense.   

  • What should I bring to the class? 
  • Bring a pen or pencil.  We will supply you with a workbook.  More importantly, bring a good attitude and a willingness to share your experience as a parent.  Most productive and rewarding parenting classes are those with parents willing to share their stories.