It seems that you can never have a family outing without someone having a tantrum.  Your kids constantly “tattle” on each other.  Perhaps you have a child that has struggled with friendships and is extremely shy.  Maybe the school has inquired about possible “ADHD” in your child and thinks you should take him/her to the doctor.  You’re exhausted because your daughter continues to cry for you every night.  You may have a hectic schedule and have problems coping with the demands of parenthood.   If any of these challenges sound familiar, welcome to parenting!

In the past, many parents relied on relatives and the community with the “it takes a village” philosophy of raising our children.  As we have moved into the “information age”, families are less likely to live close to one another.  Parents may feel isolated or uncomfortable turning to friends that have similar or greater issues with their children. 

More parents than ever are taking advantage of the internet to help resolve concerns, to get support for parents, questions, and receive support and practical parenting strategies.  With all the choices on the internet, it can be difficult to know what is credible and where a parent can receive valuable support.  Should you seek a therapist for yourself – for your child – as a couple?  Do you have the time or money to add this to your schedule? 

Recently, traditional office based clinical psychologists, MFT’s, educational psychologists and clinical social workers have added services for parents to include “phone therapy” to address issues with consulting over the phone.  This not only remedies the time issue of driving to and from appointments, but can also be done at convenient times or scheduled last minute when a parent may really feel they need the extra support.  Parent Help Live (www.parenthelplive.com)  is an excellent resource for parents because it not only addresses phone therapy for parents, but it also offers classes on topics of concern for parents in a live format, so parents can ask questions and speak to the national speakers personally. 

Parents that desire support for a specific situation receive a free consultation to determine the depth of the concern and offer a counselor or psychologist within that area of expertise.  Sessions are based on the parents’ schedule instead of the other way around.  Parents can use the same counselor whenever it is needed – one month later – weekly – or a year later – depending on the situation. 

One mother recently commented, “It’s comforting to know I have someone that knows my situation....that I can call whenever I need a little extra support or validation.”  Parents also report that by using a professional versus their friends and neighbors, they are able to avoid the unintentional judgmental comments or stigma for not doing what others want you to do.

Research is proving that parents that seek out professional help early in their children’s lives continue to use the strategies taught to them throughout their children’s lives.  This not only changes the course of discipline and parenting strategies, but it also changes the nature of the relationship and interactions with one’s children.  When parents feel frustrated or alone in their struggles, this type of parenting support can be a priceless experience.

Looking for support for parents?  Parent Help Live can help.  Learn more today.