What is parent coaching, and how is it different from therapy?

Parent coaching is an educational and collaborative service designed to help caregivers better understand their child's development and build practical, relationship-based skills rooted in the DIRFloortime® approach. Strategies may support parents in responding to challenging behaviors, strengthening communication and connection, fostering emotional regulation, promoting engagement and problem-solving, and nurturing their child's developmental capacities through everyday interactions and play. It is not therapy, medical care, or mental health treatment, and it is intended to complement—not replace—the support provided by licensed healthcare and mental health professionals.

How do I know if parent coaching is right for my family?

Parent coaching may be a good fit if you're looking for guidance in understanding your child's development, managing challenging behaviors, strengthening communication and connection, or building confidence in supporting your child's unique needs. Whether you're navigating a new diagnosis, feeling stuck, or simply wanting additional tools and encouragement, coaching offers a collaborative space focused on helping you feel more empowered in your parenting journey. Sessions can be scheduled as needed for support around specific challenges or on a more regular basis to provide ongoing guidance and accountability, giving families the flexibility to choose what works best for their lives.

Do I need a diagnosis to work with Castle Floortime?

No. While many of the families we support have children who are autistic, have ADHD, or other developmental differences, a formal diagnosis is not required. Parent coaching can be helpful for any caregiver looking to strengthen their connection with their child, better understand development, and navigate challenges with greater confidence and support.

What can I expect during parent coaching sessions?

Sessions are tailored to your family's unique needs, priorities, and goals. Together, we'll explore your child's strengths, interests, and developmental profile while talking through the situations that feel most challenging in everyday life. You might learn strategies to support communication and engagement, respond to challenging behaviors with greater understanding, strengthen emotional regulation, encourage flexibility and problem-solving, and nurture your child's developmental capacities through play and daily interactions.

We'll also work together to identify meaningful goals and find approaches that fit your family's style and routines. This may include setting small, achievable goals using tools like SMART goals, reflecting through journaling or observation notes, tracking progress, reviewing videos of parent-child interactions, brainstorming strategies for specific situations, and celebrating successes along the way. Rather than offering a one-size-fits-all approach, coaching is designed to provide practical, relationship-based support that feels realistic, flexible, and sustainable for your family.

Session structures are flexible and determined by your preferences which may include discussions, observations of you with your child and feedback, reviewing video footage you have provided, in-person modeling of strategies, etc. Castle Floortime is more than happy to offer recommendations if you are unsure where to start!

Do you work with professionals and organizations, too?

Yes. In addition to parent coaching, I offer mentorship and consultation for providers and organizations interested in deepening their understanding of DIRFloortime®, child development, and neurodiversity-affirming practices. Support can be tailored to individual professionals, teams, or programs seeking to strengthen relationship-based approaches in their work.

How do payments work?

To keep our focus on your goals during sessions, Castle Floortime uses a secure, HIPAA-compliant client management system called SimplePractice for scheduling, invoicing, and payment processing.

Card on File: A valid credit or debit card is required to be kept on file for scheduling sessions. Payment information is encrypted and stored securely and is not visible to Castle Floortime staff.

Automatic Invoicing & Payment: An invoice is automatically generated for each scheduled session. The card on file will be charged automatically for the session fee on the day of your appointment. This automated payment system helps simplify billing and ensures a smooth experience for everyone.

Receipts: Once payment has been processed, a receipt will be available in your secure Client Portal for your records.

Cancellations & Reschedules: Appointments canceled with less than 24 hours notice are typically not eligible for refunds. Appointment reschedules made with less than 24 hours notice may be subject to a late fee. Please refer to the Castle Floortime service agreement for specific cancellation policies and any applicable fees.

By completing your intake documents and enrolling in AutoPay, you authorize Castle Floortime to charge your card on file for services provided in accordance with these policies. Billing information can be updated at any time through the Client Portal.

What if I'm not satisfied with the services I receive?

Finding the right support matters. If you have concerns about our work together, I encourage open communication so we can explore adjustments, revisit your goals, or discuss other options that may better meet your family's needs. There is never an obligation to continue services if they no longer feel helpful. While refunds are not typically offered for completed sessions due to the time and preparation involved, I am committed to handling concerns with care, transparency, and respect.