I like to joke that the only job in the world that doesn’t require, or automatically provide, any training is parenting. I distinctly remember the nurse handing me my newborn to go home from the hospital for the very first time and thinking, “But I have no idea what I’m doing!” I felt that way despite having a bachelor’s degree in child development and a master’s degree in human developmental counseling. If I felt that way, with years of training in child development, I can only imagine that every other parent out there has felt the same way at some point in their parenthood journey.
Historically, child-rearing took place in the form of a literal village—a community of people who helped parents do the most important job they will ever have: raising a human. Unfortunately, today, child-rearing is typically done in isolation. Families are now raised in single-family units, leaving most parents feeling alone as they navigate parenthood. But what if we’re not meant to be alone in this journey? What if it’s okay to admit that we don’t always know what we’re doing? Parent coaching is a form of parental support that can be a wonderful resource for parents who feel stuck or simply need a supportive outlet as they navigate the challenges of parenthood.
Why Parent Coaching and What Does it Look Like?
It’s no surprise that there is an overwhelming amount of information and opinions about the "best" parenting practices. Social media can be a great resource for parents to connect with one another and find parenting tips. However, the downside is that there’s so much information available that it becomes overwhelming, and much of it contradicts itself, leaving parents unsure of where to start.
Parent coaching can be a valuable resource in this situation. Parent coaching typically involves one-on-one sessions with a licensed professional therapist who specializes in child development, or a well-trained coach. These professionals take well-documented research on topics such as parenting, discipline, and child development and simplify it to meet the unique needs of each client. Parent coaching is also a space where there is no such thing as a perfect parent—only a parent who deserves to feel supported, seen, and heard, without judgment. The parent coach can provide strategies and resources with an empathetic approach to best suit your child’s individual needs.
Parent Coaching Vs. Child Therapy
Parent coaching differs from child therapy in that it typically doesn’t involve the child directly. Instead, it focuses on providing guidance and support to the parents. A therapist might recommend this approach if they believe that helping the parents with direct resources and feedback will better address the child’s needs.
In contrast, child therapy usually involves the child (or teen) meeting individually with a licensed therapist. Child therapy might also be recommended by a parent coach if they believe the child needs individualized support. Some therapists combine the two approaches, holding some sessions individually with the child, some with both parents and child together, and others with just the parents. The structure of these sessions will depend on your family’s unique needs and the therapist’s approach.
Parents should never feel like they have to have all the answers. They deserve a safe space to receive support as they navigate parenthood, without judgment. If you think your family could benefit from parent coaching or individual therapy, don’t hesitate to reach out. Brentwood Counseling Associates has several well-trained therapists who can help guide you through your unique needs.
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