PARENT COACHING
What is Parent Coaching?
Parent coaching is a collaborative and supportive process designed to help you understand your child more deeply and feel more confident in responding to their needs. At STEPS for Kids, parent coaching is grounded in an occupational therapy perspective—focusing on development, relationships, and the everyday experiences that shape your child’s behavior.
Rather than offering one-size-fits-all advice or quick fixes, parent coaching is about uncovering the why behind your child’s challenges and helping you find realistic and practical strategies that work for your unique family.
Through personalized sessions, we identify what’s really going on beneath the surface of difficult behaviors—whether it’s sensory processing differences, developmental delays, stress, or emotional regulation struggles. We examine the dynamics of relationships, explore your needs and the perspectives that drive your behaviors, and identify skills that both you and your child need to acquire for success. Together, we build your understanding of your child, identify what’s getting in the way of calm and connection, and develop tools to restore balance in your daily life.
At STEPS for Kids, we believe you are the expert on your child and we’re here to help you reconnect with your own insight, strengthen your relationship with your child, and move forward with clarity and confidence.
Parent coaching is ideal for:
- Parents of neurodiverse or developmentally challenged children
- Families facing stress or conflict during daily routines
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Parents facing disagreement in parenting styles or understanding of their child’s needs
- Caregivers who want to shift away from traditional discipline and toward connection-based strategies
- Anyone feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or unsure of how to support their child’s needs
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the difference between parent coaching and therapy for my child?
Parent coaching focuses on you, the parent or caregiver. It’s about equipping you with the tools, perspective, and support you need to respond effectively to your child’s needs. While therapy works directly with a child, parent coaching empowers you to create meaningful change within your everyday routines and relationships.
Do I have to have a diagnosis for my child to benefit from parent coaching?
Not at all. Whether or not your child has a formal diagnosis, if you’re experiencing stress, frustration, or uncertainty in your parenting journey, coaching can help. Many families seek support during times of transition, behavior changes, or when things just feel “off.”
What happens during a session?
Each session is a conversation tailored to your family’s specific needs. We’ll explore what’s challenging, identify what’s working (even if it doesn’t feel like much), and collaboratively identify practical, actionable steps that you can start using right away.
Is coaching in-person or virtual?
Coaching is available in-person or virtually to meet your needs. Services can even vary between sometimes in person, other times virtual. Coaching services also include phone calls and emails to provide on-going support when you need it most.
How many sessions will I need?
Every family is different. Some parents benefit from just a few sessions focused on a specific challenge, while others choose ongoing support over time. We’ll work together to determine what feels right for you.
Is Parent Coaching covered by health insurance?
No. Parent Coaching is considered educational and not covered by health insurance. STEPS for Kids offers discounted rates to current and former clients. Our goal is to provide affordable support – please contact us to discuss fees and payment options.
Parent coaching is provided at STEPS for Kids by our founder, Debra Johnson, MS, OTR/L
Ready to get Started?
Request an Appointment or Learn More About Parent Coaching507 W. Kendall Dr., Suite 4 - Yorkville, IL 60560
Phone: 630-552-9890 / Fax: 630-552-9891
STEPS for Kids, Inc.
507 W. Kendall Drive
Suite 4
Yorkville, IL 60560
(630) 552-9890 Office
(630) 552-9891 Fax