I absolutely love being a parent coach! My work has given me both deep professional satisfaction and tremendous gratitude for the opportunity to support moms and dads as they manage the unique challenges and celebrate the many joys of modern-day parenting.
That’s why in the fall of 2020 after 5 years of successful practice as a parent coach, I began investigating parent-coaching certification programs that were aligned with my own approach of intentional, values-based parenting. Not only was it important to add to the gravitas of the work itself, I wanted to distinguish myself as a professional in the field. Plus, because I value continuing education, I wanted to deepen my existing theoretical knowledge and learn research-based practical skills so I could be even more effective.
Ultimately, I chose the Parent Coaching Institute© (PCI), an internationally respected organization that offers a rigorous, graduate-level program. The PCI curriculum merges a rich theory-based educational framework with both peer- and instructor-reviewed, hands-on coaching of volunteer clients.
Now that I’m officially credentialed, I’ve had a chance to reflect on and identify the five main benefits of my PCI experience.
Benefit #1 I guide parents to find their own solutions.
While parents start their first session wanting to talk about the problem, I no longer start a coaching relationship by focusing on the struggle. Instead, we begin by identifying all the strengths of the family system and the tools in their toolkit. These include the positive traits of both parents and children; clearly defined parenting values; availability of family and extended family support, helpful friends within the social system; and allied professional services they use. Once that is articulated, I work with parents to co-constructsolutions best aligned with their strengths, parenting styles, values and desires.
Using this approach, parents -- equipped with what I call their “strength stats” -- are empowered to think of strategies they can apply to other parenting situations as they arise. This also increases parents’ sense of confidence in their abilities, which is one of my primary aims.
Benefit #2 I document more.
I’ve instituted a best-practice technique of sending clients a follow-up email after each session that recaps what we discussed during our session, as well as additional ideas for them to consider.
Practically speaking, it provides a reference point for both my clients and me. Parents tell me they often reread these summaries to keep “my voice in their head,” as well as to remind them of what they need to do between sessions. It provides me with a record I can review before their next session -- or when they come back with a new issue at a later date.
Benefit #3 I’m revitalized.
Being a parent coach is vital, fulfilling and necessary work, and I’ve always felt a profound sense of appreciation for my clients’ trust in me. Frankly, I didn’t think getting credentialed could enhance the satisfaction I felt!
But as a result of completing the PCI program, I am a better parent coach, more confident and grounded in my approach. And I’m immensely grateful knowing that I’m doing everything possible to help parents navigate the key change points in their families’ lives.
Benefit #4 I now offer Group Coaching.
Put together your own group of like-minded parents with similarly aged children and we’ll work together to address common parenting challenges. Group coaching offers the same “strength-first” approach as individual coaching, but can be a much more affordable option. Plus, participants have a built-in support group to turn to between sessions.
Benefit #5 Check out my new website!
The website I recently built is much more robust than the original one I created almost 6 years ago. It more accurately reflects my coaching voice and articulates the many ways I can collaborate with parents and others.
Just as important, I wanted my website to be a place where parents could go for information (see the FAQ page) and resources they can peruse on their own. It’s also where I continue to host my blog and share media appearances and other relevant changes to my practice.
So there you have it! PCI’s program was definitely demanding, but I value my experience and the outcomes tremendously. If you’d like to take advantage of a free 30-minute consultation to learn more about how we might work together, please email me. Until then, enjoy your parenting journey!