Parenting Coach​

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A co-parenting coach is a professional who works with parents who are separated, divorced or in the process of co-parenting their children, but having difficulties in the co-parenting relationship. Co-parenting coaches are trained in family systems, conflict resolution, and communication, they help parents develop a co-parenting plan that fosters a healthy and positive relationship between both parents while keeping the child's needs central.

The role of a co-parenting coach involves:

1. Providing guidance to parents on how to communicate effectively and respectfully with each other to help create a supportive and resolvable solution for their children.

2. Helping parents to resolve disagreements regarding parenting plans and decisions without prejudice or bias, keeping the child's long-term interests in view.

3. Building future-oriented communication and problem-solving skills to promote constructive conflict resolution and foster co-parenting mutual understanding.

4. Offering education and resources on various aspects of co-parenting, including separation and divorce issues, age-related developmental challenges and effective communication skills.

5. Supporting parents to improve their co-parenting relationship and develop a secure, respectful and stress-free environment for themselves and their children.

Co-parenting coaches work with parents through individual coaching sessions, group coaching, and online courses. They provide structure, support, and accountability to help parents progress and strengthen their co-parenting relationship. The goal of a co-parenting coach is to work with both parents to establish a healthy co-parenting relationship that helps to provide the best possible environment for their children's healthy development, often enhancing overall well-being and mental health of the whole family.

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Co-parenting with a narcissist can present significant challenges as narcissists can be difficult, unreasonable, or volatile. They tend to be self-centered and lack empathy, which may affect their ability to prioritize their child's needs over their own. However, with the right strategies, co-parenting with a narcissist can be made manageable to reduce stress and limit harm to children. Below are some tips to help navigate co-parenting with a narcissist:

1. Set clear boundaries: It's essential to set clear boundaries with a narcissist when co-parenting. Maintain consistent communication, communicate directly and avoid over-sharing of information.

2. Focus on the child: The focus of every co-parenting relationship should be the well-being of the child. Try to avoid getting into arguments with the narcissist or engaging in negative interactions or discussions that do not benefit the child.

3. Keep written communication: Keeping a written record of all communication with the narcissist is important. If any disputes arise, there is physical proof of correspondence.

4. Seek support: Co-parenting with a narcissist can be mentally draining. It's important to seek support from friends, family, or co-parenting support groups.

5. Establish firm rules: Set firm rules and guidelines for co-parenting, especially if the narcissist is unreliable or inconsistent.

6. Get Professional help if needed: Consider seeking the help of a therapist, mediator, or co-parenting coach, particularly in situations when communication breaks down and personal safety is at risk.

It’s essential to remember that managing co-parenting with a narcissist can be challenging, but by focusing a child’s best interests, setting clear boundaries and seeking out professional support where needed can help alleviate and reduce the stress of the situation.

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