I’m used to handling things on my own. Does this mean I’m not a good parent?
Not at all! As the thousands of books on the topic show, there is no one perfect way to parent. Asking for help shows that you care about your parenting, your relationship with your child, and that you want to improve both. Everyone needs help now and then; recognizing that you don’t have all the answers proves you are willing to improve! In our work together, I’ll help you explore and identify your strengths and how to implement them to reduce the influence of the problems you are facing.
What’s the difference between talking to you or my best friend or family?
When working through parenting issues, friends and family can be a great source of support. But they may also have a vested interest in a specific outcome that doesn’t support your goals. A professional can help you approach your situation in a new way– teach you new skills, gain different perspectives, listen to you without judgment or expectations, and help you listen to yourself. Furthermore, both coaching and counseling services are completely confidential. Our work together provides a private space to share your struggles without fear that family members may criticize or question your decisions (and if they do criticize you, we’ll work out how to manage that in our meetings!). Lastly, if your situation provokes a great deal of negative emotion, and you’ve been confiding in a friend or family member, there is the risk that once you are feeling better you could start avoiding that person so you aren’t reminded of this difficult time in your life.
How does it work?
Because each person has different issues and goals, it will be different depending on the individual or couple. It will also depend on whether or not you are seeking Counseling, Mediation, or Parent Coaching. Coaching work tends to be more goal-directed, while counseling often examines the “why” behind the “what.” Think of me as your relationship and parenting GPS– you set the destination, and I suggest multiple routes. We start on our way and we recalculate as needed.
Speaking of Coaching vs. Counseling, what is the difference?
Great question! While both services can help you become a happier, more confident parent, there are key differences. Please see the Specialties page for more info.
How long will it take?
Unfortunately, this is not possible to say in a general FAQs page. Everyone’s circumstances are unique to them and the length of time it can take to accomplish your goals depends on your desire for personal development, your commitment, the factors that are driving you to seek services in the first place, and the frequency of our meetings.
Do we meet every week?
The frequency of our meetings will depend on your goals. Weekly meetings don’t necessarily mean faster progress, but can help hold you accountable toward making progress. I know it can be difficult to schedule time for yourself when you are a parent. My practice is completely on-line to eliminate some of the logistical issues. There’s no commuting to my office, no parking, no sitting in a waiting room wondering if you’ll bump into anyone you know. You can have a session on your lunch break at work and not need to ask for time off! Additionally, I have some availability outside of “normal business hours” to accommodate busy parents. Consistency is important, whether we meet weekly or every other week.
I want to get the most out of our work. What can I do to help?
I am so glad you are dedicated to getting the most out of our time together. Your active participation and dedication will be crucial to your success. Be open to trying something new, and trust that it takes a lot of practice to build new habits.