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Navigating 
Parenthood

Parenting book

Becoming a Parent is an Intense, Life Altering Experience

Try as we might to prepare, there is no class or reading that can equip us for the life-long commitment that is parenthood. This milestone alters our relationships with ourselves, and with those in our circles, and, with every stage of a child’s development, the skills required to navigate the journey change. 

Parenting

The Parenting Journey Can Bring Intense Emotions

A range of emotions can influence our concept of self, our relationship with our parenting partners, and the decisions we make with our children. Challenging emotions throughout the parenting experience (from infancy to adulthood) often include:

  • Surprise/Confusion

  • Fear/Helplessness

  • Guilt/Shame

  • Overwhelm/Burnout

Counselling Can Support You as You Navigate the Journey

Because so much personal growth is required in our roles, it is not uncommon to seek professional support at different times throughout the parenting journey. From infancy through to the ‘empty-nest’, counselling can support parents with:

 

  • Post-partum depression or post-partum anxiety

  • Changes with sense of self

  • Changes in relationship with intimate partner

  • Setting boundaries as new family unit becomes priority (example: parents/in-laws, friends, work)

  • Addressing unresolved pain from own childhood

  • Coping with emotional dysregulation

  • Navigating differences in parenting styles (between partners)

  • Parenting a child or teen who is struggling (mental health, substance use, issues at school)

  • Parenting an emerging adult who is “stuck” (not working or furthering their education)

  • Coping with relationship changes after the ‘nest’ is empty

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This list is by no means exhaustive.  Rather, it illustrates just some of the complexities shared by many parents. The journey of parenthood is one of steady change, and one that has influence on all the circles of our lives.  Tied to these ongoing changes is the opportunity for us to continue our own personal growth. 

How We Help

When our clinicians are working you on your parenting journey, they take time to explore your unique needs. This often includes exploration of the parenting you received as a child; which aspects you wish to recreate in your home and which you do not.

 

Other areas that may be explored include:

  • Reflection on what being a “good parent” means to you and other self narratives

  • What influence might external sources (peer groups, religious affiliations, the wider culture) be having on your parenting experience

  • What you value in parenthood

  • Processing painful childhood memories

  • Identifying your “North Star” for making parenting choices,

  • Learning to set and hold boundaries in various relationships

  • Learning sustainable and accessible self care habits

 

Parenting is a marathon, not a sprint and support throughout your parenting journey is crucial. 

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If you are looking for support in your own parenting journey, we are here to help. Book a free 15 minute consultation to see how we can help today!

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