What is Parent Coaching?
- Michelle Copley
- Apr 19
- 3 min read
Updated: 21 hours ago
Let's face it: parenting is hard. When I became a mom, I quickly realized it was one of the most challenging roles I'd ever take on. And as both a licensed Associate Marriage and Family Therapist and a mom of three San Francisco teenagers, I've learned that most of us are just figuring it out as we go—with no formal training on how to raise resilient, confident kids.
The Parent Coaching Difference
Parent coaching is like having a personal trainer for your parenting journey. It's about working collaboratively in a non-judgmental relationship to identify your strengths and areas for growth as a parent. As a parent coach, I don't tell you what's wrong or exactly how to "fix" your family. Instead, I partner with you to create a toolbox of evidence-based strategies that help you parent in alignment with your values.
Parent coaching is a type of support where parents and caregivers learn specific skills and strategies to address behavioral challenges and support their child's development. As a certified professional with expertise in evidence-based approaches, I help you look at the big picture and offer a neutral perspective.
Why Consider Parent Coaching?
You might be wondering—if my child is struggling, shouldn't they be the one meeting with a therapist?
Think about the simple math: your child spends far more hours with you than the one hour per week they might spend with a therapist. As with any new skill, practice is key. Research shows a strong relationship between a child's environment and their behaviors.
That's where parent coaching comes in. I'll help you:
Develop practical strategies for managing common parenting challenges
Enhance your parent-child relationship
Increase your confidence in your parenting decisions
Learn to navigate difficult behaviors more effectively
Create a home environment that fosters positive growth
Why My Approach Works
What makes my coaching different is the combination of professional training and real-life experience. As a licensed Associate Marriage and Family Therapist, I bring clinical expertise and evidence-based strategies to our sessions.
But more importantly—I've been in your shoes. As a mom of three San Francisco teens, each with their unique challenges, strengths, and needs, I've lived through the struggles you're facing. I've made mistakes. I've felt overwhelmed. I've questioned myself countless times.
And I've used the very techniques I teach to transform my own family dynamics. This isn't theoretical knowledge—it's practical wisdom from someone who has experienced the day-to-day realities of parenting firsthand.
How It Works
We'll start by identifying your specific parenting goals and challenges. Maybe you're struggling with bedtime battles, homework resistance, screen time negotiations, or simply feeling disconnected from your child. Whatever the issue, we'll work together to develop customized strategies that fit your family's unique needs.
Parent coaching can occur in person, online, or over the phone, and can include one or both parents. During our sessions, I'll provide education about your child's needs, offer strategies and support, and help foster improved communication and coping skills.
Is Parent Coaching Right for You?
Parent coaching might be a good fit if you:
Feel stuck in negative patterns with your child
Find yourself yelling more than you'd like
Want to understand the reasons behind your child's behavior
Need practical strategies that work in real-life situations
Feel overwhelmed by conflicting parenting advice
Want to parent more consciously and intentionally
Remember, seeking support isn't a sign of weakness—it's a commitment to becoming the best parent you can be for your children.
Ready to Transform Your Parenting Journey?
I offer parent coaching sessions both in-person in San Francisco and online to parents anywhere in the State of California. Take the first step toward a more harmonious family life by scheduling a consultation call today. Together, we'll develop a roadmap to help you navigate the challenges of parenthood with greater confidence and joy.
