Reaching our Highest Potential
Raising our children is one of the most important tasks we face in life. At the same time it is also one of the most difficult tasks, and unlike so many other things, we can’t get a degree in ‘Parenting’ and our children do not come with an instruction manual. As parents we do what we think is right, based on our own values and upbringing. But times have changed, children have different questions and needs than when we were growing up. On top of that, the world has become much larger and there are many more outside influences, such as technology, affecting our children. This makes parenting quite a challenging task. Therefore Parent Coaching can be valuable for every parent. It is a way of increasing your awareness in the parenting process and of purposely working on reaching specific goals as a parent.
A Transformational Process
As a PCI Certified Parent Coach® , I can co-actively work together with you, helping you to find new strategies that fit your family and your children. By exploring situations and sharing my knowledge, you will gain a new perspective that energizes you to try new things. You are the expert of your family while I have my expertise in Parenting, Psychology and Coaching.
Together we can catalyze a transformational process, that will help your children feel respected and connected, while you can appreciate your children and your role as a parent.
REFLECT + RESPECT = RECONNECT
Parent Coaching is possible online or face-to-face, depending on your location.
Contact me to schedule a free 20 minute consultation for more information.
“Working with Valerie was a game changer. We were lost and confused on how to handle our strong character child. Valerie taught us a different way to approach the tantrums and challenges we were facing as a family and the relationship with our kid was completely transformed. We managed to connect with our boy and we learned a better way to handle the difficulties that arise on a daily basis. Definitely worth the investment that has resulted in a happier family life.”
“Valerie customized the training 100% to me, my schedule, my questions. She gave clear and usable advice. Little tips on how to better approach a sensitive topic or a dynamic between you and your family in a different way were extremely helpful and had a big impact. Thank you, Valerie! ”
“I joined the Parental Coach a year ago and have found the coaching sessions with Valerie to be immensely valuable, thanks to her extensive experience in the field. I encountered a challenge in figuring out how to guide my 5-year-old kid in distinguishing between good friends and not-so-good friends at school. Rather than advocating for a complete break from certain friendships, Valerie provided insightful advice. She suggested allowing my kid to spend time with those friends while engaging him in conversations about specific situations. This approach allowed my kid to form his own opinions and realize on his own that these may not be ideal friendships. It proved to be a highly effective strategy, as I could indirectly influence his decisions by encouraging him to share his perspective, open his eyes and empowering him to make choices rather than imposing them on my end. Thank you, Valerie. I look forward to many more useful coaching sessions with you.””
Frequently Asked Questions
Will Parent Coaching be beneficial for me?
Parent Coaching is beneficial for any parent, and for parents of children of all ages. Parent Coaching is about you and not necessarily about your children. Therefore I do not need to see your child(ren). Through participation in parent coaching, parents often rediscover their joy for parenting, find more time for themselves, and create a deeper sense of connection with their children. My goal is to motivate you to be the parent you want to be.
Why should I choose a PCI Certified Parent Coach®?
PCI Certified Parent Coaches® have done a thorough year-long, graduate-level, Parent Coach Certification® Training Program through Seattle University and the Parent Coach Institute. PCI Certified Parent Coaches® use a highly successful coaching model adapted from executive coaching which presumes that the parent is the authentic authority in the home and that they deserve special, one-on-one time with a professional Parent Coach who supports and encourages their decision-making, but doesn't make decisions for them. PCI parent coaching offers a highly respectful, affirmative approach that catalyzes parents creativity, helping moms and dads discover their unique solutions and providing long-term positive changes.
Can I choose you to be my Parent Coach even though I do not live in The Netherlands?
Yes, you definitely can! The great thing about Parent Coaching is that our conversation can easily be done through Skype or by phone. It is not necessary for me to meet you face-to-face. I work with moms and dads, without having to see the children. On top of that I have a bilingual diploma and am fluent in English and Dutch, so if you speak either of these, language should not be a problem. If you are not comfortable in Dutch or English, please let me know and I can connect you to a Parent Coach who might be able to coach in your language.
Why should I choose for Parent Coaching through Skype or the phone?
There are many advantages to Parent Coaching through Skype or phone. You can have your coaching session during your lunch break, while your child is napping or occasionally in the evening. On top of that you can have your coaching at the location that best works for you, at work, home or any other location.
How does it work through Skype / FaceTime?
These are websites that have the possibility for video or voice calls. You just need a computer that can be online. If you don’t have Skype or FaceTime, these are easy to download. We can also have our sessions over the phone if you prefer not to use a computer.
What do we do in Parent Coaching?
When you are interested to hear more about Parent Coaching, you can schedule an initial free call with me. During this call I will tell you more about Parent Coaching and I would like to hear more about your questions and needs. We will also discuss the pricing. If you decide to continue our coaching collaboration, we will plan our first official call. From there onwards I will be asking you questions, proposing ideas, giving you resources all aimed at guiding you towards the goals that you would like to reach with the Parent Coaching.
What kind of issues can you help me with in Parent Coaching?
The great thing about Parent Coaching is that it is personally tailored to your questions, needs and goals. Therefore we will be able to focus on all different questions and issues. Some examples of struggles that parents ask me about are: sleeping, eating, divorce, different parenting styles, sibling rivalry, anger, anxiety, attention and concentration, tantrums, social skills, cultural differences, moving abroad, Screen Technology, and family-work balance. If I have the impression that your question is more Therapy based, then I will discuss this with you and try to guide you towards alternative help.
What is the difference between Coaching and Therapy?
According to the Parent Coaching Institute, “Coaching is a powerful process of change that mobilizes strengths and realizes the potential of individuals and organizations.” There is a distinction between coaching and therapy, whereas coaching has an emphasis on empowering, while the focus in therapy is on healing. Moreover, therapy usually involves a crisis and deals with past hurts, while coaching deals with present day parenting challenges.
How long does a Parent Coaching process take?
A session takes about 50 minutes, either face-to-face or through Skype/FaceTime. Typically we will ‘meet’ once per week or bi-weekly. The whole Coaching Process usually takes 8-12 sessions, depending on the personal goals you have. Some people prefer to plan a few follow-up, or maintenance, sessions on a once per month basis, for ongoing growth and development.
“Valerie is a pleasant and understanding coach who knows how to put you at ease, and support you in clarification of the challenges so that you can start working on improvement. With practical exercises she helps you to reach results, which for us have been very beneficial to the whole family. I can highly recommend her!”