Parents
Sometimes the demands and pressures of raising children can feel overwhelming.
Some of the challenges of raising children include attention seeking behaviour, fighting between siblings, lying, not eating, aggressive displays, difficulty in sleeping or lying. All such behaviours can be understood as a communication of some emotional distress. If it feels that some of the pleasures of being a parent have diminished or if you would like a space to reflect on parenting or would welcome some parenting strategies, talking with a professional might be useful. My intention is to help parents better understand complicated feelings (theirs and their children's), improve relationships and learn practical skills so as to feel more confident, content and in control. Often a different approach from a parent is the key to bringing about changes in a child's behaviour. I have devised and run workshops (individual or group) called Emotionally Supportive Parenting. In these interactive psycho-educational sessions we cover four main topics - what are the issues that contribute to poor mental health in adolescence, what happens to you when you meet your child's distress, how to be an emotional coach for your child and boundaries and de-escalation. Often when we feel out of control when dealing with teens, we can become control-ing. This can often lead to further arguments. Having a better understanding of your own emotions and behaviors means that you can be more in control of your own responses. You can only be in control of your behaviour - not other peoples. “The ESP workshop is meant to be a gift for our children, but it was a gift for me too: I have learnt to be closer to my girls, understand their needs, as they are starting to discover who they are and the world around them.” Parent who attended the workshops The practical advice and strategies used are based on research into attachment theory and evidence-based practice to help resolve difficulties. Incredible Years Parenting, Non-Violent Resistance Approach to Parenting and Emotionally Focussed Family Therapy. I can also provide an opportunity to discuss the impact of this situation on you and your other relationships. Because of the nature of such parenting support, I would recommend weekly sessions, giving you the opportunity to try the new techniques and strategies and give feedback on the progress. |