Peer-led family support intervention for refugee families
Official title: Leveraging Implementation Science and Design Methods to Sustain Community-based Mental Health Services for Refugees
Run by University of Illinois Chicago · NCT06261463 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study tests a new support program led by peers to help refugee families in Chicago improve their mental health and strengthen their family connections.
Quick facts
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 12 Years to 55 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 74 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | University of Illinois Chicago Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Chicago, Illinois) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | May 31, 2024 |
| Main results expected | August 2026 |
| Study ends | August 30, 2026 |
| Registry record updated | October 1, 2025 |
| Trial ID | NCT06261463 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Ideal candidates are refugee families from specific Middle Eastern countries living in Chicago for less than three years, with at least one adult caregiver and one child aged 12 or older.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients who do not meet the geographic or demographic criteria, or those with severe mental health issues or developmental disabilities, may not benefit from this study.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
This pilot trial evaluates the feasibility and preliminary effectiveness of the Coffee and Family Education and Support (CAFES2) intervention, which is designed for refugee families facing mental health challenges. The intervention is peer-led and focuses on strengthening family dynamics and social support through group sessions. The study aims to adapt the CAFES model to meet the unique needs of refugee families in Chicago, utilizing community partnerships and human-centered design methods. By assessing the implementation strategies and barriers, the trial seeks to enhance the delivery of mental health services in community settings.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this intervention could significantly improve mental health outcomes and family dynamics for refugee families.
How similar studies have gone: Other studies have shown promise in using peer-led interventions for mental health support in refugee populations, indicating potential for success in this approach.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
To participate in the study, the families must meet the following criteria: 1. Country of origin: Iraq, Syria, Lebanon, Jordan, Palestine or Yemen 2. refugee family living in Chicago \< three years 3. Contains at least one adult caregiver (18-55) and at least one of their children (age 12 and older) living in one household 4. One family member with \> 3 on the GHQ-12 5. able to give written informed consent. Exclusion criteria for refugee families: 1. Not from one of the following Arabic-speaking countries in the Middle East: Iraq, Syria, Jordan, Lebanon, Palestine, Yemen 2. men and women who do not have least one child aged 12 years and older living in one household 3. arrived in the U.S as a refugee greater than 3 years ago 4. persons with developmental disabilities which would preclude their participation in the adapted CAFES intervention 5. persons with severe mental health (e.g., suicidality psychotic disorder), active substance use or current in family crisis (e.g., domestic violence, divorce proceedings).
Where it's running
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University of Illinios Chicago
Chicago, Illinois, United States Recruiting
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Mary Bunn, PhD — University of Illinois Chicago
- Study coordinator: Mary Bunn, PhD
- Email: mbunn@uic.edu
- Phone: (312) 355-2136
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How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.