Parenting and Family
Parenting is one of the hardest and most demanding roles we take on. It often brings up strong emotions, old patterns and unexpected challenges, particularly when parents are tired, overwhelmed or under pressure. Many parents come to therapy feeling unsure, reactive or worried they are getting it wrong, despite caring deeply about their children.
Family stress can show up as conflict, behavioural challenges, emotional outbursts, withdrawal, power struggles or difficulty setting and maintaining boundaries. These challenges are rarely about a lack of love or effort. They are more often linked to nervous system overload, developmental needs, and patterns learned within families over time.
An important part of this work is recognising that parenting can be adjusted and supported at any stage. It is never too late to make changes, repair ruptures or develop new ways of responding. Children of all ages benefit when adults become more regulated, reflective and supported.
Beyond Talk Therapy™ focuses on helping parents understand both their child’s nervous system and their own. I use a significant amount of psychoeducation to support parents with practical tools and strategies that are appropriate for different stages of child development. This includes understanding emotional regulation, co-regulation, boundaries, behaviour as communication, and how stress impacts the family system.
Sessions may include individual parent support, joint family sessions, or a combination depending on what is most helpful. By supporting parents first, families often experience more calm, connection and clarity. Over time, this work helps create a family environment where emotions can be expressed safely and relationships can repair and strengthen.
