Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is parent coaching?

Parent coaching is a collaborative, supportive process where I help you better understand your child’s behavior, reduce daily struggles, and create a parenting approach that works for your unique family. It’s not therapy—it’s practical, strengths-based guidance rooted in connection, neuroscience, and co-regulation.

2. How do I know if parent coaching is right for me?

If you’re feeling overwhelmed, stuck in power struggles, or unsure how to support your child—especially if they’re neurodivergent—coaching can help. I support parents of autistic, PDA-profile, ADHD, highly sensitive, and otherwise differently-wired children. Studies show that parents of neurodivergent children face significantly elevated, chronic stress— with real physiological consequences. These findings made a strong case for these parents especially to have more support, this is were a parent coach can really help!

3. What makes you different from other parent coaches or therapists?

I’m a certified parent coach through the Jai Institute for Parenting, with 13+ years of experience in early childhood education and neurodivergent support. I’m also a neurodivergent parent myself, raising a PDA child. I approach each family with compassion, lived experience, and practical tools that honor your child’s nervous system and your own.

4. What kinds of challenges can you help with?

I can support you with:

• Chronic power struggles and meltdowns

• Understanding PDA, autism, ADHD, and sensory needs

• Building connection and communication

• Shifting from yelling to co-regulation

• School refusal and transitions

• Sibling dynamics

• Parental burnout and self-regulation

• How to cope with frequent meltdowns

5. Do you work with parents of children who don’t have a diagnosis?

Absolutely. Many of the families I support are navigating challenges that feel like more than typical parenting, even if there’s no formal diagnosis. I meet you where you are—no diagnosis required.

6. What does a coaching session look like?

Each session is a 1:1 conversation over Zoom. We’ll explore what’s going on, look beneath the behavior, and co-create strategies that feel doable. I may offer resources, scripts, or exercises to try between sessions. You’ll leave feeling heard and more equipped.

7. How long do people usually work with you?

It depends! Some families see meaningful shifts after just a few sessions. Others prefer weekly or biweekly sessions over a few months to build deeper change, others benefit from ongoing practical* support. I offer packages as well as single sessions to suit your needs.

8. Do you offer support for schools or professionals too?

Yes! I also offer consulting to early learning programs, schools, and professionals looking for neurodiversity-affirming support strategies. I can assist with child-specific challenges, staff workshops, or inclusive program development.

9. Can both parents attend sessions?

Yes! Parenting works best when everyone’s on the same page. I welcome both parents (or other caregivers) to participate if wanted.

10. Is this the same as therapy or counseling?

No. Parent coaching is not therapy, and I don’t treat mental health conditions. However, coaching can be a powerful complement to therapy, especially when you’re looking for hands-on tools and day-to-day support.

11. How do I get started?

You can book a free 30- minute discovery call to see if we’re a good fit. From there, we’ll decide on a session or package that fits your needs. You may reach me directly at wholeheartparentcoaching@gmail.com or fill out the form on the Contact page and I will be in touch shortly. Alternatively, send me a quick message through my Instagram page @wholeheartparentcoach

Testimonials

“Before coaching with Carolyn, I felt like I was constantly failing my child. She helped me slow down, understand what’s going on under the surface, and respond with connection instead of panic. Everything has shifted — especially my confidence.”

— Amanda M., mother of 7-year-old autistic child

“I’ve done therapy. I’ve read the books. But nothing clicked until I started working with Carolyn. Her lived experience with PDA is what made me feel safe and seen.”

— Jordan S., co-parent of neurodivergent twins

“Carolyn blends professional expertise with a deep, non-judgmental presence. Our home feels calmer, and I finally feel like I’m parenting with intention instead of reacting all the time.”

— Michelle L., ECE and mom of 3

“Carolyn has been an incredible support to our team — responsive, knowledgeable, and child-centered. Her insights around PDA gave us new strategies we hadn’t considered, and families felt empowered after her workshop.”

— Director, Early Learning Centre