Setting the Stage · Parenting Adult Children Today

Setting the Stage

Hello Friends,

As we begin our journey together, I thought it might be helpful if I take a few minutes to share some thoughts as well as set the stage for our time together.

First and foremost, I want you to know how much I respect you for stepping into this moment. I always believed that anyone who walked through the door of my therapy office was courageous and open. While this is not therapy, I believe it took courage for you to join this group. You are going to have the opportunity to learn a lot about yourself and your children in a whole new way and sometimes, that can feel scary. You are on the right path - you've got this!

Second, this will be a safe group with no judgment. Each person has a unique journey and it will be honored. I will ask that each person stay focused on what they are working on so each parent can learn and grow in their own way.

Next, I want you to hear this: You are enough! There is no such thing as a perfect parent and as you know, parenting is not easy, especially now. I want you to pay attention to the voice in your head if you start to beat yourself up. Do not listen to it if throws up all your past mistakes, choices, and conversations with your kids. Most people do not understand that voice is an automatic response of your brain but it doesn't mean it is always accurate or true. I am not saying we aren't to learn from our past issues but there is a healthy and an unhealthy way to do that, which will be discussed in the modules as well as our time together.

Last, let me encourage you to finish Module 1 and print out the journal. The first one is an overview of the P.A.R.E.N.T. Method so you can familiarize yourself with the heart of what you will be learning. Each week I will address core principles that will support your relationship with your child as well as how you can prioritize your own well-being.

Remember, you've got this!

Catherine

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