Parent/Caregiver Support

Every stage of a child’s development brings new joys and challenges. Change can come suddenly, sometimes bringing with it puzzling new behavior. When children and adolescents present with challenging behavior, it can be difficult to know what to do. As caregivers try one strategy after another, they may feel bewildered, exhausted, frustrated, and alone. Relationships across the family can become strained as these dynamics unfold.

I work with parents and caregivers of children, pre-adolescents, and adolescents. I listen without judgement to understand what you are experiencing. I ask about what you’ve tried, what’s working, what isn’t, and what your child’s strengths are. Together, we create a plan to help you address the challenges and strengthen your bond with your child. I support you as you try new skills and identify those that work best for your family.

In addition to help with behavioral issues, I provide emotional support and resources to caregivers who are navigating the following issues alongside their children:

• Neurodiversity.

  Each of us processes information about the world in our own unique way. Within the diverse range of human wiring, there is a subset that is considered typical. For children who are wired atypically, the milestones of childhood don’t unfold as they do for others. Caregivers can feel bewildered, frustrated, and isolated as they support their child in navigating a world designed for neurotypical people.

  I work with parents and caregivers who know or suspect that their child is wired differently. I provide a safe space for you to express feelings, gain new information, discuss possibilities for evaluation, build your circle of support, and develop strategies for staying present in difficult moments to help your child with emotional regulation and problem-solving. I strive to help caregivers and children use their unique neurotypes to work through difficulties and support strong, positive relationships among family members.

• Self-awareness and acceptance.

  Adolescence is a complex time of change for adolescents and their families. Adolescents are maturing physically, intellectually, and emotionally, and they are deeply engaged in developing their unique sense of identity. Parents may feel challenged supporting their children as they explore the many facets of who they are, including race, ethnicity, culture, ability, gender, sexual orientation, and spirituality. I provide a safe space for parents and caregivers to process their experience of their child’s journey, express their feelings, gain new information, and guide other family members in creating a supportive environment for their child to be their authentic selves.