FAQs

Parent Coaches are different than parent educators. Coaching is different than therapy.  How do you know which approach is right for you? The following are frequently asked questions and answers. If you don’t see your specific question please contact Sally.

WHAT IS A PCI CERTIFIED PARENT COACH^®?
A PCI Certified Parent Coach^® is a highly trained individual who completed the rigorous graduate-level parent coach training through the Parent Coaching Institute in collaboration with Seattle Pacific University.

WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN A PCI CERTIFIED PARENT COACH^® AND A PARENT EDUCATOR?
A PCI Certified Parent Coach® “helps you discover constructive ways to address a situation that may be causing you some concern, assists you in identifying your goals, and helps you with designing action steps to attain them”. (Source: Parent Coaching Institute)
A Parent Educator generally provides specific skills and strategies through an organized, programmatic delivery of information such as a parenting class or group presentation.

HOW IS COACHING DIFFERENT FROM THERAPY?

• Therapy assumes the client needs healing.
• Coaching assumes the client is higher functioning.
• Therapy focuses on feelings, past events; past orientation.
  Coaching focuses on action and the future; goal-orientation.
• Therapy focuses on the root of problems.
  Coaching focuses on solving problems.
• Therapy works with people to achieve self-understanding and emotional healing.
  Coaching works to bring clients to a higher level of functioning.
• Therapy works for internal resolution of pain and to let go of old patterns.
  Coaching works for solutions to overcome barriers, learn new skills & implement effective choices.

Source: Hayden, C. J., and Whitworth, L. “Distinctions Between Coaching and Therapy.” International Association of Personal and Professional Coaches Newsletter, October 1995.

WHAT CAN YOU EXPECT FROM PARENT COACHING?

• Lots of understanding, compassion, and support.
• Questions that may surprise or challenge your thinking.
• Practical solutions and relevant facts to redefine problems.
• To laugh more and be easier on yourself.
• A more satisfying relationship with your children.
• Positive change . . . even transformation.
• And if you still have questions, check out ‘How Will Parent Coaching Help Me’ and ‘Parent Coaching as a Tool for Enhancing the Lives of Families‘.

HOW DOES THIS WORK?
Sally can accommodate  clients with telephone or Zoom sessions.

HOW DO I GET STARTED?
Just email info@parentwell.com to schedule a session. The first 30 minute phone or zoom consultation is free.