How many sessions of Parent Coaching should I attend?
Parent Coaching is most effective if parents attend several sessions, which is why we strongly encourage parents to attend at least three (with two to three weeks between each session). This allows the coach to get to know you, to understand your context and to offer tailored support. After three sessions, parents can evaluate if more sessions will be helpful.
How much time should there be between sessions?
Every family is unique. Generally, we recommend a gap of two to three weeks between each coaching session, but this depends on the needs of the family.
Do children attend the sessions? What about young babies/siblings?
Parent Coaching is for you to attend without your child/children present. This provides the space required to focus on the specific needs and challenges within each family, without the conversation being overheard. The coaching rooms are not specifically set up to be ‘child-friendly’ either, so we ask that care is arranged for your children to maximise the potential of the session. Nursing babies are very welcome.
What if I can’t afford the fee?
We try to keep fees at a reasonable rate so that our services are accessible to families. If you have a Community Services card you are entitled to a subsidised fee. Please email support@parentingplace.nz for information or to make your booking at a reduced rate.
What hours are the Parent Coaches available?
The Parent Coaches are available at various times Monday to Thursday during business hours. We are not a crisis service. Visit Healthpoint’s Social Services Directory or the Mental Health Foundation’s helpline directory for more information on suitable health providers in your area. If you need to talk now, contact Need to Talk: free call or text 1737 any time for support from a trained counsellor.
Is this counselling?
No, the coaching service provides advice specifically for parenting related challenges. This is more of a mentoring based approach and gives you practical parenting ideas and strategies to implement in your home. We can recommend counsellors and other services if this is more appropriate.
Is Parent Coaching confidential?
All your information, whether written or verbal, will be held in the strictest confidence unless your safety, or the safety of others, becomes an issue. Every effort will be made to discuss this with you prior to any action being taken.