Why Invest in Parent Coaching + How it Works
As most adults know, no one ever feels totally prepared to be a parent.
However, many parents still feel like they should figure everything out on their own.
And while you might be able to tackle most parenting challenges yourself, sometimes it’s just better to recruit help. That “help” could be anything from virtual consulting to in-person group classes. The options available are endless.
Parent coaches step in when family and friends are no longer the type of support you require, when you have questions that only professionals can answer, and when you’re ready to embrace new habits.
What is a Parent Coach?
A parent coach, usually certified as a Behavior Analyst (BCBA, LBA), is a healthcare professional who supports and advocates for your family. This person can offer a fresh perspective and focused advice. Different from a friend or family member, a parent coach is trained to tackle emotional, behavioral, and relationship issues.
There are a variety of different evidence-based strategies parent coaches utilize. At New Habits Consulting, we customize our approach based on client goals and needs!
Compared to traditional family therapy, parent coaching takes a more targeted approach, working strategically toward specific behavior or relationship goals.
Parent coaching is also an opportunity for parents to reconnect with and better understand themselves, after years of what often feels like chaos.
“A parent coach, usually certified as a Behavior Analyst (BCBA, LBA), is a healthcare professional who supports and advocates for your family. This person can offer a fresh perspective and focused advice.”
How Does Parent Coaching Work?
To get started, you’ll sit down with your potential parent coach for a consultation.
You’ll learn about their training, certifications, cost, and strategy here. You’ll have a chance to ask questions, as they will also have questions for you.
Make sure to ask those key “decision-making” questions based on your research to make the most out of your chat.
Your coach will identify possible challenges and goals after you explain your family’s circumstances. As you work together, they will introduce and teach tested solutions and tools based on their observations and the chosen framework.
Typical Process Overview:
Assessment
Intake and interviews
Identify attainable goals
Make and review a strategic plan
Begin learning essential principles and strategies
Ongoing adjustment/check-in sessions
Invest in a parent coach to work through real-life experiences with guidance, revise how you’re handling “negative” situations, and begin practicing essential therapeutic skills to stabilize your home while learning long-term strategy.
“Your coach will identify possible challenges and goals after you explain your family’s circumstances. As you work together, they will introduce and teach tested solutions and tools based on their observations and the chosen framework.”
What are the Benefits of Parent Coaching?
6 Powerful Benefits of Parent Coaching:
Improve family communication
Boost parent confidence
Repair family’s emotional health/group dynamic
Learn proven tools and strategies
Maximize early childhood parenting opportunities
Hands-on help
From teaching coping skills to stopping you from catastrophizing, a parent coach can be an invaluable resource for caregivers.
Christina Crawford, a well-known family blogger, admits that she was “drowning” before hiring a parent coach and that it’s the “best money” she’s ever spent.
The truth is, you can invest in help at any point. Only you know what’s best for your family!
Maybe there’s been an incident or tragedy, and moving past it has been challenging for everyone.
Or your child is experiencing ongoing behavioral issues that you’ve become exhausted trying to address.
Parents often report feeling empowered by their coaching experience, because they’re able to problem-solve better and confidently care for their child.
Wondering if a coach can benefit your child?
Parent coaches can help with:
Big transitions or familial changes
Behavioral issues
Learning disorders
Neurodevelopmental disorders (ADHD, ASD)
Eating disorders
Oppositional defiant disorder
Reactive attachment disorder
Trauma survivors
New parents
Parents in recovery
“From teaching coping skills to stopping you from catastrophizing, a parent coach can be an invaluable resource for caregivers.”
How does Parent Coaching Improve Parent Confidence?
There’s no shame in feeling self-doubt or in accepting help to get back on track.
Parent coaches create a non-judgmental space for you to learn and grow as individuals and as a family.
They work to boost confidence in three ways:
Teach - learning therapeutic tools for at-home use better equips parents to overcome daily challenges. Discover parenting frameworks and learn how to be adaptive.
Repetition - consistent success and positive progress help parents feel hopeful and relieved, improving the family dynamic.
Repair - any kind of growth requires healing. A coach can help you accept past mistakes and move on with a renewed attitude.
Want to Learn More?
Meet with our accomplished Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) and Licensed Behavior Analyst (LBA), Andrew Arellano, to experience customized care and expert-level problem-solving.
If you’re interested in private parent counseling sessions, submit your name here to set up a free consultation.
To learn more about New Habits Consulting, browse our service menu and about page!
This post was written by Nicole Nettell, freelance wellness writer & recovery advocate.
To work with her, visit www.nlncopywriting.com.