Footsteps Counseling, LLC

Parent Coaching

One of the biggest joys and yet biggest challenges in life is raising children. It can be difficult one moment and a pleasure the next. Often, parents feel as if they are on an emotional roller-coaster. We try to stay a step ahead, but life is not always predictable. When problems arise that we are unprepared for, we often second guess our decisions and sometimes even our ability as a parent.

When problems persist, many parents become frustrated, confused and worn out. Parents commonly report having tried many "plans", read many books and even seen many counselors. When nothing seems to change, parents may give up.

Parent Coaching can help you reclaim your confidence as a parent by identifying your strengths and parenting style, learning new skills, implementing a positive action plan and strengthening the connection with your child. Parent coaching can help through each developmental stage ranging from toddlers to teens. Benefits can include renewed energy, closer relationships with your children, greater harmony and more joy in parenting.

Common goals often include:

• increasing communication and listening skills
• managing disruptive behavior
• defusing power struggles
• dealing with sibling rivalry
• handling homework battles
• increasing cooperation
• raising a special needs child
• resolving conflicts
• developing a positive discipline plan
• setting boundaries and developing routines
• parenting as partners
• connecting with your child or teen
• slowing down and being more present with your child
• managing stress
• balancing demands of work and family

Coaching Approach

Coaching aims to help parents reach their goals for their family by providing support, education and skills training. Parents can be assisted in developing an effective behavior management plan that is best-suited for their family. While there are many effective plans, I often refer to Positive Parenting with a Plan: F.A.M.I.L.Y. Rules.

Based on my qualifications and training as a Licensed Professional Counselor, I am able to incorporate therapeutic techniques in the coaching process. Such techniques may be helpful to the parent in ganing self-awareness and identifying personal issues that may be hindering their ability to be the most effective in parenting. Parents will have the opportunity to process their thoughts and feelings and resolve issues so that they will be free to be the best parent they can be for their children. I often include techniques from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Impact Therapy, Play Therapy, Expressive Arts Therapy and Mindfulness.

Getting Started

To schedule an appointment or to discuss any concerns, contact me by phone at (256) 655-6762 or by email at christie@footstepscounseling.net

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