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Parent Coaching
The Value of Having Someone on Your Side
By Tracy McGinnis
Coaching can be handled in person, via e-mail or over the phone; the technique used is usually determined by personal preference. "Some coaches only do phone; some do a mix and some only in person," says Parr. 
Scribner works with clients through 45-minute weekly or bi-weekly phone calls scheduled at their convenience. "The beauty of this arrangement is that the parent doesn't have to arrange for childcare or leave their home," says Scribner. Bronstein says he does most of his coaching over the phone but will do in-home sessions with local clients. "It's easier to do it that way," says Bronstein. "If someone is having a hard time, they can call at that time." Klee agrees, saying that the advantage of working over the phone or by e-mail is that you can be responsive to parents as situations arise and be in contact between those sessions.
Charges for coaches vary according to the education, experience and type of coaching; insurance does not cover coaching. Costs can be calculated per session. For example, a one-hour session may run $75. Some coaches are quick to point out that fees may adjust according to client needs. Bronstein says that he offers discount packages. "So something like two one-hour sessions, four check-in calls and a month of unlimited e-mail support would be $175," he says.
Coaching can also be provided for a group of families, such as a support group, or for facilitating group discussions on parenting topics.
"Typically the immediate family is the main focus," says Klee. "However, I will involve grandparents, school counselors and teachers when it supports the work I am doing with parents. For example, if a child is doing poorly in school, I will help parents develop better communications with the school so they can learn about their child's progress on a weekly basis instead of waiting till the end of a marking period."
"At some point all coaches may have to be licensed or certified, but that is currently not the case," says Parr. "Certification is an indication of a certain level of commitment and expertise in coaching but does not indicate their level of understanding in child development, parenting research, etc."
Parr says she would personally look for experience and education related to parenting, families and child development when seeking out a coach. "Also, I would want someone that would know when/if there was something more that [was] needed [like] help from a medical or mental health professional," she says.
Certification through places like the Parent Coaching Institute