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Transforming Your Parenting Journey with Coaching

  • Writer: Michelle Copley
    Michelle Copley
  • Apr 19
  • 3 min read

Updated: Jun 8

Let's face it: parenting is hard. When I became a mom, it became clear that it was one of the most challenging roles I'd ever take on. As both an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist and a mom of three San Francisco teenagers, I’ve learned that most of us are figuring it out as we go. We often receive no formal training on how to raise resilient, confident kids.


The Parent Coaching Difference


Parent coaching is similar to having a personal trainer for your parenting journey. It's about collaborating in a supportive, non-judgmental relationship to pinpoint your strengths and areas for improvement.


As a parent coach, I do not dictate what is wrong or how to "fix" your family. Instead, I partner with you to create a toolbox filled with evidence-based strategies that help you parent in alignment with your values. This process empowers you to develop the skills needed to address challenges effectively.


What Does Parent Coaching Involve?


Parent coaching helps parents and caregivers learn specific skills to tackle behavioral challenges and support their child's development. As a certified professional with expertise in evidence-based approaches, I help you take a macro view and offer a neutral perspective on your parenting style.


Why Consider Parent Coaching?


You might be asking—if my child is struggling, shouldn't they meet with a therapist?


Consider this simple math: your child spends significantly more hours with you than the one hour weekly they may spend in therapy. Practicing new skills is essential for effective parenting. Research consistently shows a strong relationship between a child's environment and their behavior.


That is where parent coaching comes into play. I assist you by:


  • Developing practical strategies for managing common parenting challenges.

  • Enhancing your parent-child relationship.

  • Increasing your confidence in your parenting decisions.

  • Learning to navigate difficult behaviors more effectively.

  • Creating a home environment that nurtures positive growth.


Why My Approach Works


What sets my coaching apart is the blend 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 perhaps more importantly—I understand what you’re going through. As a mom of three San Francisco teens, I navigate unique challenges, strengths, and needs daily. I've made mistakes. I've felt overwhelmed. I've questioned my abilities countless times.


I’ve also utilized the very techniques I teach to transform my family dynamics. This is not theoretical knowledge; it’s practical wisdom from someone who has lived through the complexities of parenting.


How It Works


We begin by identifying your specific parenting goals and challenges. You may struggle with bedtime battles, homework resistance, screen time negotiations, or feeling disconnected from your child. Whatever the issue, we’ll collaborate to develop customized strategies that meet your family's needs.


Parent coaching can take place in person, online, or over the phone, accommodating one or both parents. During our sessions, I provide education about your child’s needs, share effective strategies, and help enhance communication and coping skills.


Is Parent Coaching Right for You?


Consider parent coaching if you:


  • Feel stuck in negative patterns with your child.

  • Find yourself yelling more than you’d prefer.

  • 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.

  • Aim to parent more consciously and intentionally.


Remember, seeking support is not a sign of weakness—it reflects your commitment to becoming the best parent you can be for your children.


Success Stories from Parent Coaching


Let me share a few examples of how parent coaching has positively impacted families.


Many parents come to me feeling frustrated and hopeless. After implementing the techniques we discussed, they often notice immediate changes in their family dynamics. For instance, one mom reported that her evenings transformed from a chaos-filled routine into a calmer, more connected experience.


Another dad, struggling with discipline issues, found that our sessions helped him better understand his child’s behavior. With targeted strategies, he began to approach challenges with confidence, leading to improved communication and a healthier relationship.


These stories illustrate how effective parent coaching can be. It goes beyond theory—it's about real families making real changes.


Ready to Transform Your Parenting Journey?


I conduct parent coaching sessions in person in San Francisco and online for parents throughout 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.


Remember, you are not alone in this journey. Professional support is available, and small changes can lead to significant improvements in your parenting experience.


Schedule Your Free Initial Consultation


Ready to take the next step? Schedule a free initial consultation with me today and start transforming your family life!



 
 

Michelle Copley is a licensed Associate Marriage and Family Therapist (AMFT) specializing in parent coaching and family dynamics. Based in San Francisco, she combines professional expertise with real-world experience as a mother of three teenagers to help parents build stronger, more connected relationships with their children.

© 2025 by Michelle Copley

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