Resilient Families Feasibility Trial
Enhancing Parental Well-being in the NICU
Massachusetts General Hospital
50 participants
Apr 1, 2026
INTERVENTIONAL
Conditions
Summary
The goal of this study is to test the feasibility and acceptability of a dyadic, resiliency intervention ("Resilient Families;" R-FAM) that aims to reduce emotional distress and improve relationships among parents in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU). To achieve this goal, the investigators are developing a randomized control trial where patients will be randomized to either the R-FAM condition or a minimally enhanced usual control (MEUC), which includes resources on parent mental health and coping in the NICU.
Eligibility
Inclusion Criteria5
- Adult parent/legal guardian (and/or their partner) of a baby admitted to the NICU within past week (age ≥ 18)
- Currently in an intimate relationship and will live with baby after NICU discharge
- At least one dyad member is emotionally distressed (GAD>=10 or PHQ >= 10)
- English fluency/literacy
- Ability and willingness to participate via live video
Exclusion Criteria3
- Baby is expected to pass away (as determined by medical team)
- Current, untreated psychosis or substance dependence/abuse
- Current self-report of suicidal ideation
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Interventions
R-FAM is a resiliency intervention for couples with an infant admitted to the NICU. Parents will complete 6 guided sessions with a clinical psychologist that cover topics such as managing stress, staying in the present, and coping with uncertainty. Through these sessions, parents will learn skills to manage the "emotional roller-coaster" of the NICU, cope with stress, and connect with each other.
Parents will receive educational resources on how to cope with and adjust to the NICU stay.
Locations(1)
View Full Details on ClinicalTrials.gov
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NCT07383948