From Therapist to Transformed Parent: My Journey of Healing and Growth

When I found Jai's program, several things stood out: the intensive nature of the curriculum, the experiential learning approach through weekly group sessions, and most importantly, the focus on attachment. 

Other programs I researched seemed too brief or surface-level. I knew I needed something comprehensive – a ground-up, foundational overhaul – not just for my role as a mother but also to enhance my ability to serve my clients effectively.

What many people don't realize is that mental health providers often face their own parenting struggles. In fact, many of my current clients are therapists themselves.

Many of us entered this field because of our own wounds and challenges, often rooted in childhood experiences. These issues don't magically disappear when we become parents – if anything, they become more apparent and urgent.

The transformation I experienced through the program was profound. The most significant change? I no longer go to bed each night drowning in guilt. I can wake up in the morning feeling confident that I'm giving my children what they need. Even writing this brings tears to my eyes, because the shift has been so meaningful. I've learned how to properly repair relationships with my children, and the guilt and shame that once created barriers between us no longer hold the same power.

Do I still sometimes struggle with feelings of worthlessness, shame, guilt, and fear? Of course. But these emotions no longer interfere with my relationship with my children the way they used to. I honestly can't imagine where my family would be if I hadn't taken this step to transform my parenting approach.

This journey hasn't just improved my personal life – it's revolutionized my professional practice as well. While I previously worked with anyone dealing with attachment trauma, I've now refocused my practice to specifically support parents. I find I can see things I was blind to before, particularly in understanding the complex dynamics between parents and children. I've gained a deeper appreciation for how traditional "power-over" parenting approaches can manifest in various areas of life, creating patterns that ripple through generations.

This new understanding led me to create Cycle Breaking Mom, a coaching membership specifically designed for parents who recognize how their childhood trauma and attachment wounds affect their parenting. 

We meet weekly in groups, creating a powerful community of individuals committed to breaking generational cycles. What makes this work so meaningful is that everyone involved understands that real change requires more than just reading a parenting book or joining a Facebook group – it demands a deep personal transformation.

To my fellow therapists who might be struggling with their own parenting challenges – you're not alone. Our professional training, while valuable, doesn't automatically translate to confident, connected parenting. 

Sometimes, our deepest growth comes from acknowledging that we, too, need support and guidance. Adding parent coaching certification to your practice isn't just about expanding your professional toolkit – it's about transforming both personally and professionally in ways that will benefit not only your own family but also the families you serve.

Looking back, I realize that my journey from struggling parent to confident coach wasn't just about acquiring new skills – it was about healing my own wounds and finding the courage to parent differently. And in doing so, I've found my true calling: helping other parents break free from generational patterns and create the connected, loving relationships they've always wanted with their children.

This transformation wasn't easy, but it was worth every challenging moment. Because now, when I look at my children, I don't see just my struggles and fears – I see opportunities for connection, growth, and healing. And that makes all the difference.