Is parent coaching therapy?

No. Our sessions do not address the important work of healing trauma, or treating mental illness. Parent coaching is not intended for situations of family abuse, where work with a social worker or psychologist would be appropriate. If a great level of healing and growth has been made in these areas, and a licensed professional has given the go-ahead, parent coaching may be the next right step. Parent coaching is present and future-oriented. Its aim is to help families who are functioning "well-enough" thrive. 

 

Are you going to tell me what to do?

No! I’m not an instructor with a prescriptive program to teach you. This is a co-creative process. You are the expert in your family. I am trained to help you make change. I will offer ideas and resources if/when requested and appropriate. With my help, you will come to many great realizations and creative ideas of your own.

 

How long is this going to take?

Parent coaching is neither a quick fix, nor a process to stay in forever.  While things will start to change right away, deep change usually requires a bit of time. With some patience, effort, and courage, you can create transformative shifts for your family! That said, it is also not a very long-term process: our aim is to work together for a few months, after which time you strike out on your parenting path owning your skills and talents, and confidently using them in creating the family life you desire.

 

Why isn’t my child involved in the sessions?

The PCI coaching model holds that the parent is the leader of the family, and as such, we dedicate our process to your reflection and action steps. You may (and should if you are so called!) involve your child in decision making around next steps in your family. As your coach, I can help you identify when and at what level this makes sense to you.