Why You Need A Parent Coach
You know you need support, but don’t know what kind.
If you’ve been following me for some time, you know that parent behavior therapy is the gold standard for helping kids with ADHD. The thing is...not every family needs parent behavior therapy to see changes in their child’s behavior.
In this blog post, I’ll talk about the differences between parent behavior therapy and parent coaching, and how to know which is the right fit for you.
What is the difference between parent behavior therapy and parent coaching?
Parent Behavior Therapy:
Focused on diagnosing and treating ADHD, and provider can provide documentation of diagnosis if needed (for school IEP, for example)
Conducted by a therapist
Often used as a first step prior to trying medications for young children
Intensive, following weekly or biweekly treatment program
May not have a basic understanding of ADHD
Parent Coaching:
Focused on achieving parenting goals (e.g., be less stressed, knowing how to respond to child’s behavior)
Does not have to be done by someone with credentials
Can be used at any time based on individual goals
Time frame is flexible based on goals
Basic understanding of ADHD assumed
How do I know if I’m not a good fit for coaching?
The only way to know is by scheduling a consultation with a provider to determine if you would be a good fit. There are a few things to keep in mind that would automatically make it so that parent behavior therapy is a much better fit for you.
You need someone to determine if your child does or doesn’t have ADHD. A parent coach is not able to diagnose your child with ADHD
You need intensive treatment for multiple concerns (e.g., significant anxiety, trauma)
You have serious concerns about your child’s safety (e.g., harming themselves or others)
How do I find a provider for parent behavior therapy?
If parent behavior therapy is a better fit for you, there are great therapists who can help you and your family! You can find a therapist through your insurance, PsychologyToday, a referral from your pediatrician, or other website that I’ve listed in this blog post.
What should I look for in a parent coach?
You don’t want just anyone telling you the best strategies for parenting your child. You want someone who has the right experience. Here are some keys to look for or ask someone about that you’re interested in as a coach:
How much experience do you have with kids with ADHD
Do you have any specialized training or education in parenting or ADHD?
How many parents have you worked with in the past?
These questions will help guide you to the person who is the best fit for you and your family. The coaching relationship is an important one, and you want to make sure it’s the right fit.
Do you think coaching is the best fit for you?
If you want to work with someone who truly understands you to help you on your journey of parenting a child with ADHD, send me a DM on my Instagram or you can also try my ADHD Program’s self-study option.
