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GPS Parenting Program. Navigating parenting trans and gender diverse young people with a group-based program: A single-blind randomised controlled trial of efficacy and acceptability.

Many families of trans young people tell us they feel unsure, stressed, or alone as they try to support their child.

About the GPS Parenting Program

Many families of trans young people tell us they feel unsure, stressed, or alone as they try to support their child. The GPS Parenting Program was created to help bridge this gap while family wait to access specialist paediatric gender services. GPS is a group-based program for parents and caregivers of trans young people aged 12–18. It runs over five weekly, two-hour sessions, delivered at four sites across Australia. The program brings parents together to learn, share experiences, and build confidence in supporting their child’s wellbeing.

The name “GPS” reflects the aim of the program: to help parents navigate what can sometimes feel like unfamiliar or challenging terrain, while strengthening family relationships and building supportive networks.

What the program aims to do

The GPS Parenting Program is designed to:

  • Support parents to better understand gender diversity and the experiences of trans young people.
  • Strengthen parent–child relationships, with a focus on communication, connection, and emotional support.
  • Improve parents’ wellbeing, particularly for those navigating complex systems, long waiting periods, or high levels of stress.
  • Build peer support, connecting parents with others who share similar experiences.

What the research study is about

We are running a national research study to understand how well the GPS Parenting Program works and how helpful parents find it. Specifically, the study aims to:

  1. Assess whether the program improves wellbeing for families compared to families receiving “treatment as usual” while on a waitlist for specialist services.
  2. Understand the impact of the program on parents’ quality of life and their relationship with their child.
  3. Explore how feasible and acceptable the program is, including what parents like, what could be improved, and how the program can be delivered in the most supportive way.

This research will help us ensure the GPS Parenting Program is evidence-based, effective, and responsive to the needs of families of trans young people across Australia.