Parent Counseling

Parent Counseling

At the Integrative Therapy Institute we provide individual therapy for children and individual therapy for adolescents. In addition to this, we also provide parent counseling, which may be provided to the parents alone, to parents and children together, or on an alternating basis.  

Some of the issues that we frequently help parents with include:

  • management of behavioral issues
  • strengthening communication
  • collaborative problem-solving
  • blended families
  • divorce/remarriage
  • co-parenting

Parent counseling, whether on-site or via a teletherapy, is most often needed in the areas of discipline and communication.  When adults become parents, they quickly realize that their children don’t always do what they want, and they often respond by reacting emotionally or by channeling the approach modeled to them by their own parents.  Sometimes this works, and sometimes it doesn’t.

When it doesn’t work, we teach you what does.  We teach parents to set clear limits with clear consequences that are not overly severe.  We also teach parents not to get upset when doing this because discipline is a normal part of being a parent.  In general, we recommend establishing a family structure that is neither adult-centered nor child-centered, but is, instead, fairness-centered.  We find that this approach prevents both feelings of alienation and feelings of entitlement from developing in children, while also fostering the spirit and the skills of cooperation.

With communication, we teach parents how to listen actively and to ask questions in a manner that fosters open lines of communication.  We also teach parents to avoid shaming and excessive judgment, but also to render judgment in ethical areas when needed.

We also offer counseling to parents in specific areas such as

  • learning disabilities
  • ADHD
  • autistic spectrum disorders
  • psychiatric disorders.

With adolescents, we also offer parent counseling on

  • issues relating to responsibility, trust, and privileges
  • alcohol and substance use issues
  • college admissions
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Frequently Asked Questions

What is parent counseling?

Parent counseling provides parents with guidance and support as they navigate parenting challenges, family relationships, communication, discipline, and concerns about their children's emotional or behavioral needs. Counseling may focus on practical strategies for responding to difficult situations, strengthening communication, and developing a healthy family structure. Learn more about Therapy Services for Parents at ITI-NJ.

What issues can parent counseling help with?

Parent counseling can help with a variety of parenting and family concerns, including behavioral issues, discipline, communication difficulties, collaborative problem-solving, blended families, divorce or remarriage, and co-parenting. Parents may also seek guidance related to children's learning disabilities, ADHD, autism spectrum disorders, or psychiatric disorders.

How does parent counseling help with discipline and behavior?

Parent counseling can help parents develop clear, consistent approaches to setting limits and establishing appropriate consequences without relying on overly severe responses. Therapy can also help parents manage their own emotional reactions and develop strategies that encourage cooperation while maintaining appropriate parental boundaries.

How can parent counseling improve communication within the family?

Parent counseling can help parents develop active listening skills, ask questions that encourage open communication, and respond to difficult conversations without excessive judgment or shame. These skills can help parents better understand their children's perspectives while maintaining appropriate boundaries and expectations.

Can parent counseling help with ADHD, learning disabilities, or autism?

Yes. ITI-NJ provides parent counseling and guidance for families dealing with concerns related to learning disabilities, ADHD, autism spectrum disorders, and psychiatric disorders. Counseling can help parents better understand their child's needs and develop strategies for supporting their child at home and in other settings.

Can parent counseling address concerns with adolescents?

Yes. Parent counseling can help parents navigate issues that commonly arise during adolescence, including responsibility, trust, privileges, communication, and concerns related to alcohol or substance use. Parents may also seek support when helping their teens navigate major transitions such as college admissions.

Do both parents need to participate in parent counseling?

No. Parent counseling may be provided to one parent individually, to both parents together, or on an alternating basis, depending on the family's circumstances, goals, and needs. The therapist can help determine an appropriate format for counseling.

Is parent counseling available in person or through teletherapy?

Yes. Parent counseling is available in person and through secure teletherapy for clients residing anywhere in New Jersey. The format can be determined based on the family's needs, circumstances, and treatment goals. Learn more about teletherapy services at ITI-NJ.

Where can parents learn more about mental health concerns that may affect their children or adolescents?

ITI-NJ provides educational information about common mental health problems and emotional difficulties that can affect children and adolescents, including anxiety, depression, ADHD, and other concerns that may benefit from professional evaluation or treatment. Information about mental health problems and treatment can help parents better understand these concerns and recognize when professional evaluation or treatment may be appropriate.

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Teletherapy Services

The Integrative Therapy Institute of New Jersey has adopted teletherapy over secure platforms as an available option for all of our clients to receive their therapy services.  This online therapy service allows clients residing anywhere in NJ to meet with any of our therapists working at any of our locations.