Parents in the Okotoks and Foothills area who may be facing challenges with young adult children can find relief in a program offered by the Okotoks Family Resource Centre.

Sherri Mullen, Specialist with the Okotoks Family Resource Centre, says the program is professionally supported, and is offered to parents who may be struggling with adolescents.

"The main intent of the program is to provide support to parents who are having challenges with their young adult, or older teen children," she said.

Mullen says the program is supported by professionals, and offers more than just a venting forum.

"The group is run by parents for parents, but is professionally supported, and is based on a format that's informed by evidence and research. It does follow a format where it's not just a come and complain about your kids kind of a session," she said.

Mullen says confidentiality, help, problem solving and practical strategies are just a few things parents can expect to get out of the group sessions.

Weekly meetings are held here in Okotoks, and are led by parent facilitators with professional back-up where needed, and is free of charge.

Some topics addressed in the group are disrespectful behaviour, school problems, criminal activities, drug and alcohol abuse and relationships. Parents can speak with other parents who are in, or have been in similar situations, and can share information on strategies for dealing with the challenges they may be facing.

You can learn more about the program and access an orientation session by contacting the Okotoks Family Resource Centre at 403-995-2626, or by emailing parentsupport@okotoks.ca.

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