Caregivers of children awaiting an evaluation for autism undergo increased levels of stress (Mulligan et al., 2012; Zukerman et al., 2015) and their self-efficacy with parenting is frequently impacted (Murphy & Harrison, 2022; Tang et al., 2015). Most interventions to date have focused on child outcomes while waiting for an evaluation for autism (Zukerman et al., 2015). Very few studies have supported caregivers during the waiting list, while also measuring their outcomes (DesChamps, 2020). The present study examined the initial efficacy of C-HOPE as an interim service for caregivers of children waiting for an evaluation for autism spectrum disorder. A single group pre/post method was used to assess whether participation in C-HOPE reduced caregivers stress levels, increased caregiver self-efficacy, increased knowledge about behavior management and behavioral principles, and reduced child problem behaviors. A secondary aim was to measure the acceptability, feasibility, and appropriateness of the intervention. The results of this study provide preliminary but promising evidence supporting the efficacy and acceptability of the C-HOPE parent training program for caregivers of children awaiting an evaluation for autism. Statistically significant changes were observed across several outcome variables, including reductions in caregiver stress, increased caregiver satisfaction, increased knowledge about behavioral principles, and decreased child problem behavior intensity, with large effects sizes each. No significant effects were observed for caregiver self-efficacy. There was an increase in efficacy on average, with a positive effect. Effects of C-HOPE on efficacy should be examined in future studies. Study implications and future research directions are provided
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