“Parenting is the hardest job you will ever do”. You may have heard some variations of this statement. Typically, it is said by a well-meaning friend or family member when a parent is in the midst of a crisis with their child. It can be validating to hear these words when you are at your wit's end. The question then becomes… “So, what do I do now?”. This is where I can help.
What is Parent Coaching?
Coaching is a series of goal-oriented interactions where the coach helps the client to develop and execute a plan to attain a desired outcome. Just as an athletic coach guides an athlete to improve performance, a parent coach uses a strengths-based approach to help parents to improve their parenting skills. Coaching is not therapy. The focus is not on mental health concerns or resolving past issues. These factors, however, inform the coaching process when strengths and challenges are being assessed.
Why Consider Working with a Parent Coach?
A parent coach can assist parents in a number of ways. If your child is receiving therapy for mental health concerns, parent coaching/consulting is typically an integral part of the treatment approach. I meet with parents at regular intervals to assist them to implement strategies to support the child’s treatment goals. Parent coaching may also be done without the child being in treatment and can help with concerns such as:
Family transitions (divorce, death, other family changes)
Supporting a neurodivergent child
Behavioral issues
Tantrums and meltdowns
Sibling conflicts
Communication difficulties
Problems with enforcing rules and limits
How Does Parent Coaching Work?
As a parent coach, I assist parents to identify the strengths that they bring to the table and determine how those strengths can be used to achieve the goals that they set. It is important to have a realistic assessment of the current situation to develop a practical action plan. For example, are there stressors (financial, career, medical, or relationship issues) that are affecting the parent? Are expectations appropriate for the developmental age of the child? What are the parenting skills that need to be acquired or improved? These are just some of the questions that are explored.
My role is to support you as you take action to become the parent that you want to be. This may involve teaching you skills and strategies to enhance those you already have. I may also suggest books, articles, and other resources to complement discussions that occur in sessions. We will meet regularly to review progress and find solutions to obstacles that impede progress. You are the expert on your child. Our work together will serve to increase confidence in your expertise while recognizing the value of self-compassion and joy of being “good enough”.
How Do I Start Parent Coaching?
I encourage you to reach out today for a free consultation to learn more about how I can support you and your family.