(415) 354-4241 info@drbernecker.com

Therapy For Parents

Parenting – Joyous But Stressful!

While parenting can be joyous and rewarding it can also be hard, stressful, and confusing!
 
None of us were given a manual. I am a professional licensed clinical psychologist with a specialization in parent coaching and therapy. Whether your kid is a toddler, teen, or young adult, parent’s today struggle with balancing demanding work schedules with hectic family life.
Parenting can be stressful for everyone. As parents you are like – Rushing to and from work. Picking up tired children from school and other activities. Preparing nutritious meals – while managing allergies or other special food needs. Refereeing arguments between siblings.
 
And while you balance all of those needs, it can seem impossible to stay connected to your husband, wife, or partner. Sometimes this may mean losing your temper. Even the best parents in the world find themselves in hot moments where they may be reactive. These “hot” moments can leave parents feeling frustrated, guilty, and inadequate. Kids and teens in turn often feel unheard, rushed, controlled, mad, or confused.
 
Often when parents come to me for help they are ready to:
 
  • Respond with more patience and calm.
  • Have a peaceful start to their work day.
  • Talk to their kid so he/she/they will listen.
  • Have their kid to help out in the morning instead of chasing/nagging him or her to get things done.
  • Have more loving moments with their child
  • Have more peace in household

Common Issues Discussed

Every parent has their own set of unique experiences. We will work on whatever is important to you. Some common topics and issues that come up in session are:

  • Anxiety with being a new parent
  • Anxiety with being a parent to 2+ kids
  • Feelings of shame, fatigue, or helplessness
  • Feeling ineffective
  • Coping with defiant behaviors
  • Dealing with meltdowns
  • Overcoming procrastination
  • What to do when kids are pushing your buttons
  • Feelings of anger and frustration
  • What to do when you need help 
  • Parental reactivity 
  • How to better understand your children and what they are trying to tell you
  • Different parenting styles
  • Dealing with your own inner child work 

 

You Are In A Relationship With Your Child

A reflective parenting approach can be effective during hot moments and in turn improve your child’s resiliency and your connection with your kid

How It Works

What To Expect In Session

The initial consultation is with both parents, ideally together and in-person. We start be getting to know each other, going over what is happening that has brought them in and what they hope to work on. I gather a through family history, paying close attention to early childhood relationships and patterns that may be impacting the family. 

My Approach

I work from a reflective parenting, insight oriented, and attachment-based approach to better understand what might be happening underneath both the child’s and parent’s behaviors and focus on important routines and structures to improve relationships.