Mental Health Latio in San Berdino California - EL CENTRO DE AMISTAD

New Evidence Based Practice at El Centro de Amistad: Positive Parenting Program (Triple P)

Arianna Penalba, M.A., IMF

Having been at El Centro de Amistad for over a year now, I have had the opportunity to provide

counseling to children and their families drawing mainly from cognitive behavioral therapy techniques.

Recently, I was trained in an evidence based model called Triple P that seeks to promote positive

parenting strategies to manage children’s problem behaviors more effectively and above all to increase

positive behaviors. My training and use of the model have converted me into a proponent of positive

parenting. It sounds so simple, but the reality is that children do not come with a handbook and more

often than not we tend to notice and pay attention to their negative behaviors. With all of my extensive

education and training in various theoretical models of psychology, Triple P, has reminded me of the very

basic and primitive concepts of Learning Theory. We learn by example/modeling and positive

reinforcement. Of course, it is easier said than done, but I believe that Triple P breaks down these

extremely effective concepts for parents into a 10 week, hands-on guide, that provides tangible

materials as a workbook and video demonstrations. Moreover, one of the most beneficial components

of the model is an emphasis on self-evaluation and reflection. Clinicians trained in Triple P demonstrate

for parents how to self-evaluate oneself nonjudgementally to use this skill beyond the model for

constant improvement and growth that eventually leads to self-efficacy and increased confidence in

their parenting abilities. I am eager to continue working with Triple P to help parents develop effective

and healthy parenting strategies that will in turn help their children, while maintaining a secure bond

and appropriate boundaries.