Parenting Therapists in West Olive, MI

Photo of Diane C Streng, MA, LLP, Limited Licensed Psychologist
Diane C Streng
Limited Licensed Psychologist, MA, LLP
Verified Verified
West Olive, MI 49460
Individual, family, and couples counseling for all ages and problems.Counseling for abuse, anxiety, behavioral problems, depression, fears, self-esteem, stress, marital, pre-marital, divorce, pregancy, relationship issues, parenting and step-parenting problems, employment, school, adoption, grief, death, religious issues. Twenty five years of experience. Located downtown Grand Haven at the Harbourfront Place, Suite 370.
Individual, family, and couples counseling for all ages and problems.Counseling for abuse, anxiety, behavioral problems, depression, fears, self-esteem, stress, marital, pre-marital, divorce, pregancy, relationship issues, parenting and step-parenting problems, employment, school, adoption, grief, death, religious issues. Twenty five years of experience. Located downtown Grand Haven at the Harbourfront Place, Suite 370.
(616) 847-1530 View (616) 847-1530
Photo of Patrick Schaafsma, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Patrick Schaafsma
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
West Olive, MI 49460  (Online Only)
We navigate new and stressful situations on a daily basis. Sometimes we are satisfied with our ability to respond. At other times, we feel stuck, inadequate, or unable to find a purpose for moving forward. Maybe we missed something significant, fell into an old and unwanted pattern, or wish things would go differently in our relationships. Whether looking through a lens of deficit or strength, family influence or individual accomplishment, spiritual background, relationships, trauma history, or any other way of filtering our experiences, we are constantly learning more about ourselves.
We navigate new and stressful situations on a daily basis. Sometimes we are satisfied with our ability to respond. At other times, we feel stuck, inadequate, or unable to find a purpose for moving forward. Maybe we missed something significant, fell into an old and unwanted pattern, or wish things would go differently in our relationships. Whether looking through a lens of deficit or strength, family influence or individual accomplishment, spiritual background, relationships, trauma history, or any other way of filtering our experiences, we are constantly learning more about ourselves.
(616) 537-2733 View (616) 537-2733
Photo of Michelle McDonald, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Michelle McDonald
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Olive, MI 49460
My goal is to spark change in people’s lives and relationships. I believe that everyone has the ability to make changes. I use a holistic approach to help people develop a deeper understanding of themselves on all levels. The process of therapy is a great tool to help you grow when you are ready to do the work and unlock your innate capability to explore yourself. Therapy is about being there to help people explore their histories, uncover patterns and make choices to let go and move forward. If you are struggling because life has given you obstacles with communication and connections, I want to help you take back your life.
My goal is to spark change in people’s lives and relationships. I believe that everyone has the ability to make changes. I use a holistic approach to help people develop a deeper understanding of themselves on all levels. The process of therapy is a great tool to help you grow when you are ready to do the work and unlock your innate capability to explore yourself. Therapy is about being there to help people explore their histories, uncover patterns and make choices to let go and move forward. If you are struggling because life has given you obstacles with communication and connections, I want to help you take back your life.
(616) 773-1633 View (616) 773-1633
Photo of Rebecca Rozema - Ripples of Change Counseling , LMSW, LCSW, ACSW , Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ripples of Change Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, LCSW, ACSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Olive, MI 49460
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in working with individuals who have experienced trauma and their families. I am trained in TBRI, certified in TF-CBT, and experienced with foster care and adoption struggles. I also have a passion for working with military service members and their families. I work hard to meet people where they are, from ages 3-55. I utilized play therapy, talk therapy, art therapy, individual, family and couples therapy. I want to support you in the changes you want to make in your life and will work with you to move forward in meeting your goals.
I specialize in working with individuals who have experienced trauma and their families. I am trained in TBRI, certified in TF-CBT, and experienced with foster care and adoption struggles. I also have a passion for working with military service members and their families. I work hard to meet people where they are, from ages 3-55. I utilized play therapy, talk therapy, art therapy, individual, family and couples therapy. I want to support you in the changes you want to make in your life and will work with you to move forward in meeting your goals.
(616) 404-4229 View (616) 404-4229

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Stephanie Vail, LPC Intern
Stephanie Vail
LPC Intern
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Holland, MI 49423
I work with clients encountering a variety of challenges including: difficulty with parenting and relationships; balancing work and family; spiritual concerns; adjustments to parenthood; chronic pain; work stress; navigating small business or self-employment; financial stress; and family struggles.
Your experiences, thoughts, and struggles are unique to you and so are your gifts, joys, and perspectives. Developing awareness around how your circumstances influence who you are helps you gain clarity and allows you to write future chapters of your life with intention. Counseling is a space to be seen without judgment and safely explore what it might look like to live into a future of intentionality and purpose. Pursuing your full, whole self is a gift you give not only to yourself but to those around you, and counseling is a great place to explore what that might look like.
I work with clients encountering a variety of challenges including: difficulty with parenting and relationships; balancing work and family; spiritual concerns; adjustments to parenthood; chronic pain; work stress; navigating small business or self-employment; financial stress; and family struggles.
Your experiences, thoughts, and struggles are unique to you and so are your gifts, joys, and perspectives. Developing awareness around how your circumstances influence who you are helps you gain clarity and allows you to write future chapters of your life with intention. Counseling is a space to be seen without judgment and safely explore what it might look like to live into a future of intentionality and purpose. Pursuing your full, whole self is a gift you give not only to yourself but to those around you, and counseling is a great place to explore what that might look like.
(616) 612-2888 View (616) 612-2888
Photo of Daniel L Bierma, MEd, MDiv, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Daniel L Bierma
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MEd, MDiv, LMSW
Verified Verified
Zeeland, MI 49464
I have been working with children, families and organizations for over three decades in various forms. From children with special needs, to teaching, to hospice care, to working in schools and organizations, to now working full time as a therapist. In working as a therapist, I have experience working in schools, churches, foster care, CPS, FOC, family relationships, child behavior, parenting, conflict resolution, and leadership counseling. I have worked with children, parents, grandparents, pastors, principals, and others seeking to move in a different direction, or better manage their current situation.
I have been working with children, families and organizations for over three decades in various forms. From children with special needs, to teaching, to hospice care, to working in schools and organizations, to now working full time as a therapist. In working as a therapist, I have experience working in schools, churches, foster care, CPS, FOC, family relationships, child behavior, parenting, conflict resolution, and leadership counseling. I have worked with children, parents, grandparents, pastors, principals, and others seeking to move in a different direction, or better manage their current situation.
(616) 201-0834 View (616) 201-0834
Photo of Joel Whitney - Joel Whitney, Counselor, MA, LPC, Counselor
Joel Whitney, Counselor
Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Holland, MI 49423
Joel is a Christian Counselor in Holland MI who works exclusively with children and teens, and helps parents reclaim confidence and joy in parenting. Joel is focused exclusively on kids and family. His passion and expertise lie in his love of kids and getting to know them. He specializes in childhood & adolescent issues, parenting strategies, and coping through divorce. Joel excels at making connections with kids and parents and helping them navigate through the frustrations of family life to reach a place of peace and joy.
Joel is a Christian Counselor in Holland MI who works exclusively with children and teens, and helps parents reclaim confidence and joy in parenting. Joel is focused exclusively on kids and family. His passion and expertise lie in his love of kids and getting to know them. He specializes in childhood & adolescent issues, parenting strategies, and coping through divorce. Joel excels at making connections with kids and parents and helping them navigate through the frustrations of family life to reach a place of peace and joy.
(616) 548-6081 View (616) 548-6081
Photo of Carolyn Sutherby, PhD, LMSW, ACSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Carolyn Sutherby
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LMSW, ACSW
Verified Verified
Holland, MI 49422
Waitlist for new clients
Carolyn has been working with children and families for over 25 years. She specializes in treating children and families and provides parenting support for caregivers with children/adolescents who have behavioral health concerns and conducts individual and family therapy. Carolyn also has expertise with Highly Sensitive People (HSP), including children (HSC). This is a normal biological trait in personality and physiology inherited by about 20% of the population. HSP's have sensitive nervous systems and feel things deeply, notice more in their environment and are easily overstimulated by sensory input in their environment.
Carolyn has been working with children and families for over 25 years. She specializes in treating children and families and provides parenting support for caregivers with children/adolescents who have behavioral health concerns and conducts individual and family therapy. Carolyn also has expertise with Highly Sensitive People (HSP), including children (HSC). This is a normal biological trait in personality and physiology inherited by about 20% of the population. HSP's have sensitive nervous systems and feel things deeply, notice more in their environment and are easily overstimulated by sensory input in their environment.
(616) 537-6893 View (616) 537-6893
Photo of Jean Chamness Russner, MSA, MA LLP, Limited Licensed Psychologist
Jean Chamness Russner
Limited Licensed Psychologist, MSA, MA LLP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Holland, MI 49423
Parenting is hard work, especially if your child is experiencing emotional or behavioral issues.
People are my Passion. If you need a listening ear to process feelings, a helping hand to navigate life transitions or interpersonal relationships, or support for managing mental health conditions, I'm here to help. With over 20 years of experience and being CBT Certified, I use DBT-informed CBT techniques, combined with the healing effects of a positive, supportive relationship, to teach you coping strategies to manage stress and improve your emotional well-being. I especially enjoy working with families of children and adolescents struggling with emotional or behavioral issues.
Parenting is hard work, especially if your child is experiencing emotional or behavioral issues.
People are my Passion. If you need a listening ear to process feelings, a helping hand to navigate life transitions or interpersonal relationships, or support for managing mental health conditions, I'm here to help. With over 20 years of experience and being CBT Certified, I use DBT-informed CBT techniques, combined with the healing effects of a positive, supportive relationship, to teach you coping strategies to manage stress and improve your emotional well-being. I especially enjoy working with families of children and adolescents struggling with emotional or behavioral issues.
(616) 219-8286 View (616) 219-8286
Photo of Michelle Sheridan - Time For A Change Therapy, LLC, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Time For A Change Therapy, LLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Holland, MI 49423
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in depression, life-transitions; relationship and marital issues, parenting struggles, career related difficulties, and general discontentment with life.
Hi. I'm Michelle Sheridan. I have over 27 yrs. of experience helping couples & individuals through difficult times, transitions & struggles both past & present. I'd like to help you, if you feel it's "Time For A Change"! Is anger, resentment, frustration, depression or overall unhappiness an issue? There's no time like the present to look at what choices you've made in the past & how your past may be affecting today & your future. Learning to communicate in a productive way, finding your voice and control your emotions can help change your future. Let's identify problem areas, understanding yourself and others better.
I specialize in depression, life-transitions; relationship and marital issues, parenting struggles, career related difficulties, and general discontentment with life.
Hi. I'm Michelle Sheridan. I have over 27 yrs. of experience helping couples & individuals through difficult times, transitions & struggles both past & present. I'd like to help you, if you feel it's "Time For A Change"! Is anger, resentment, frustration, depression or overall unhappiness an issue? There's no time like the present to look at what choices you've made in the past & how your past may be affecting today & your future. Learning to communicate in a productive way, finding your voice and control your emotions can help change your future. Let's identify problem areas, understanding yourself and others better.
(616) 202-5257 View (616) 202-5257
Photo of Rebecca Parrish, LLMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rebecca Parrish
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Holland, MI 49423
I have significant experience with Anxiety, Depression, Trauma, Domestic Violence, Behavioral Concerns, ADHD, Infant and Early Childhood Mental Health, Parent-Child Relationship Support, School Issues, and LGBT+ Affirming Care.
Hi! I'm Rebecca, a therapist serving all ages in the greater Holland area. My specialty is child, adolescent, and family work, but I also love working with adults of all ages. In my work with children I believe it is critical to come alongside caregivers and support them in understanding what is behind their child’s behavior, learn how to respond in ways that support healthy development, and find ways to care for themself in the process. I also seeks to make therapy fun for the entire family! I utilize approaches including play, sandtray, art, and self-compassion interventions. I hope that children look forward to coming back!
I have significant experience with Anxiety, Depression, Trauma, Domestic Violence, Behavioral Concerns, ADHD, Infant and Early Childhood Mental Health, Parent-Child Relationship Support, School Issues, and LGBT+ Affirming Care.
Hi! I'm Rebecca, a therapist serving all ages in the greater Holland area. My specialty is child, adolescent, and family work, but I also love working with adults of all ages. In my work with children I believe it is critical to come alongside caregivers and support them in understanding what is behind their child’s behavior, learn how to respond in ways that support healthy development, and find ways to care for themself in the process. I also seeks to make therapy fun for the entire family! I utilize approaches including play, sandtray, art, and self-compassion interventions. I hope that children look forward to coming back!
(616) 739-6294 View (616) 739-6294
Photo of Amanda Walma, MA, LPC, Counselor
Amanda Walma
Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Holland, MI 49424  (Online Only)
My other areas of focus include postpartum depression and anxiety, women’s issues, depression, anxiety, parenting, trauma, and abuse and neglect.
To be able to enter into a season of recovery, one must take the step to enter into a season of vulnerability. Starting where you are and taking the first step can be difficult, though seeking help is a great place to start. I am passionate about self-advocacy and providing a safe space for you. I will tailor treatment to fit your unique needs and situation, while we work together to process through your concerns and harness your strength and resiliency.
My other areas of focus include postpartum depression and anxiety, women’s issues, depression, anxiety, parenting, trauma, and abuse and neglect.
To be able to enter into a season of recovery, one must take the step to enter into a season of vulnerability. Starting where you are and taking the first step can be difficult, though seeking help is a great place to start. I am passionate about self-advocacy and providing a safe space for you. I will tailor treatment to fit your unique needs and situation, while we work together to process through your concerns and harness your strength and resiliency.
(616) 737-0155 View (616) 737-0155
Photo of Jenna Nienhuis, MDiv, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jenna Nienhuis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MDiv, LMSW
Verified Verified
Holland, MI 49424
Whether you are seeking treatment for depression, anxiety, managing a chronic condition, grief and loss, parenting challenges, traumatic experiences, or personal growth; psychotherapy is an effective and evidence-based way to move toward greater health, healing, and emotional wellness at any age. I am a therapist who is passionate about empowering others to discover and live into their truest selves. A hallmark of my practice is drawing on a breadth of training and experience to offer an individualized, effective, and safe therapeutic environment for all.
Whether you are seeking treatment for depression, anxiety, managing a chronic condition, grief and loss, parenting challenges, traumatic experiences, or personal growth; psychotherapy is an effective and evidence-based way to move toward greater health, healing, and emotional wellness at any age. I am a therapist who is passionate about empowering others to discover and live into their truest selves. A hallmark of my practice is drawing on a breadth of training and experience to offer an individualized, effective, and safe therapeutic environment for all.
(616) 201-3335 View (616) 201-3335
Photo of Kara Dunn Bloemendaal, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kara Dunn Bloemendaal
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Holland, MI 49423
Maybe you feel yourself start to close off when someone asks how you're doing, because you don't really know the answer. Maybe you're a parent, who doesn't recognize who your teen has become. Maybe your partner doesn't feel like your partner, this relationship doesn't look like how you envisioned it would anymore. Maybe depression, guilt, or shame have become so familiar, that you wonder what therapy would even do. Maybe you just want to be known by someone.
Maybe you feel yourself start to close off when someone asks how you're doing, because you don't really know the answer. Maybe you're a parent, who doesn't recognize who your teen has become. Maybe your partner doesn't feel like your partner, this relationship doesn't look like how you envisioned it would anymore. Maybe depression, guilt, or shame have become so familiar, that you wonder what therapy would even do. Maybe you just want to be known by someone.
(616) 303-5023 View (616) 303-5023
Photo of Jane Detweiler-Sutliffe, LLPC, Counselor
Jane Detweiler-Sutliffe
Counselor, LLPC
Verified Verified
Holland, MI 49423
In addition, I help adults with parenting issues, depression, anxiety, divorce, a history of abuse or domestic violence, single parents, blended families, and overwhelmed moms.
My ideal client is someone who is looking to become a happier, healthier person. There are many challenges throughout our lives that come unexpectedly and without warning. Though we can't change that, we can change our approach to facing the challenges which can make all the difference. I consider it a privilege to walk next to you in this journey. You are stronger than you realize and I look forward to helping you see that! Life can and will get better on the other side of this.
In addition, I help adults with parenting issues, depression, anxiety, divorce, a history of abuse or domestic violence, single parents, blended families, and overwhelmed moms.
My ideal client is someone who is looking to become a happier, healthier person. There are many challenges throughout our lives that come unexpectedly and without warning. Though we can't change that, we can change our approach to facing the challenges which can make all the difference. I consider it a privilege to walk next to you in this journey. You are stronger than you realize and I look forward to helping you see that! Life can and will get better on the other side of this.
(616) 990-2310 View (616) 990-2310
Photo of Amy Harbison, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amy Harbison
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Zeeland, MI 49464
Hello, my name is Amy Harbison. I am a licensed clinical social worker who specializes in childhood trauma and family counseling. If you or your loved one is experiencing distress in their relationships or if past traumatic experiences are stealing your joy, I would be honored to walk alongside you in your healing journey. The desire to see strong families and healthy relationships are two of the primary reasons I chose to pursue a career in clinical social work. The parent child relationship is the first one in which we learn who we are to others and where our sense of value and worth begins to form.
Hello, my name is Amy Harbison. I am a licensed clinical social worker who specializes in childhood trauma and family counseling. If you or your loved one is experiencing distress in their relationships or if past traumatic experiences are stealing your joy, I would be honored to walk alongside you in your healing journey. The desire to see strong families and healthy relationships are two of the primary reasons I chose to pursue a career in clinical social work. The parent child relationship is the first one in which we learn who we are to others and where our sense of value and worth begins to form.
(616) 371-5028 View (616) 371-5028
Photo of Brian Highstreet, MA, LPC, Counselor
Brian Highstreet
Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Holland, MI 49424
As the parent of a child with "big emotions" I know the difficulty that many parents face with raising children in today's high tech and fast-paced world.
I work with youth, young adults, adults, and families who struggle with many of today's life challenges. Issues such as anxiety, anger, depression, school/work problems, loss/grief, divorce, etc. are things that I help individuals and families to effectively deal with. Everyone wants to be healthy and happy. Unfortunately life throws a lot of curve balls and this can be easier said than done. Discovering strengths and helpful ways of coping are ways to better ensure happiness and health.
As the parent of a child with "big emotions" I know the difficulty that many parents face with raising children in today's high tech and fast-paced world.
I work with youth, young adults, adults, and families who struggle with many of today's life challenges. Issues such as anxiety, anger, depression, school/work problems, loss/grief, divorce, etc. are things that I help individuals and families to effectively deal with. Everyone wants to be healthy and happy. Unfortunately life throws a lot of curve balls and this can be easier said than done. Discovering strengths and helpful ways of coping are ways to better ensure happiness and health.
(616) 439-2015 x722 View (616) 439-2015 x722
Photo of Amy Kate Petersen, MS, LLC, Counselor
Amy Kate Petersen
Counselor, MS, LLC
Verified Verified
Holland, MI 49424
Working through challenging chapters of our story can lead us to question the understanding we have of ourselves and our place in the world, making our grasp on hope feel messy and tenuous. As a counselor, I will step into your story gently and walk alongside, as you pick up the broken pieces, examine them, and explore paths toward hope and healing. I specialize in working with older teens and adults working through stress, anxiety, relational challenges, and parenting concerns. I also have experience working with clients facing abuse and trauma history, mood disorders, and post-partum depression.
Working through challenging chapters of our story can lead us to question the understanding we have of ourselves and our place in the world, making our grasp on hope feel messy and tenuous. As a counselor, I will step into your story gently and walk alongside, as you pick up the broken pieces, examine them, and explore paths toward hope and healing. I specialize in working with older teens and adults working through stress, anxiety, relational challenges, and parenting concerns. I also have experience working with clients facing abuse and trauma history, mood disorders, and post-partum depression.
(616) 441-4223 View (616) 441-4223
Photo of Jennifer Baker, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jennifer Baker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Grand Haven, MI 49417
I have been helping individuals address various issues related to parenting, grief, blended families, co-parenting, anxiety, trauma and academic and behavioral issues.
I have a passion for working with children, but also work with teens and adult. I have been helping children in both school and in private and non-profit settings for many years. I have worked with children in foster care and with adoptive families. In addition, I help individuals address various issues related to parenting struggles that go alongside raising children. I have provided counseling to individuals, couples and families for 25+ years. Giving a person the tools to cope and deal with what they are facing, and watching them be successful in their personal lives and excel in their future endeavors is incredibly fulfilling.
I have been helping individuals address various issues related to parenting, grief, blended families, co-parenting, anxiety, trauma and academic and behavioral issues.
I have a passion for working with children, but also work with teens and adult. I have been helping children in both school and in private and non-profit settings for many years. I have worked with children in foster care and with adoptive families. In addition, I help individuals address various issues related to parenting struggles that go alongside raising children. I have provided counseling to individuals, couples and families for 25+ years. Giving a person the tools to cope and deal with what they are facing, and watching them be successful in their personal lives and excel in their future endeavors is incredibly fulfilling.
(231) 261-2277 View (231) 261-2277
Photo of Lindsey Bandy Blodgett, PhD, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lindsey Bandy Blodgett
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC
Verified Verified
12 Endorsed
Holland, MI 49423
Life can get messy. Maybe you found yourself in a situation you didn't choose for yourself, or maybe you can't seem to shake that gnawing anxiety or the voice that says "you will never be enough". Perhaps you found yourself reeling in the wake of someone else's choices, or maybe even your own. Or maybe you are a parent watching helplessly as you see your son or daughter struggle. That's where I come in. I value the opportunity to be invited into life's most fragile areas and walk alongside you toward freedom, wholeness and hope.
Life can get messy. Maybe you found yourself in a situation you didn't choose for yourself, or maybe you can't seem to shake that gnawing anxiety or the voice that says "you will never be enough". Perhaps you found yourself reeling in the wake of someone else's choices, or maybe even your own. Or maybe you are a parent watching helplessly as you see your son or daughter struggle. That's where I come in. I value the opportunity to be invited into life's most fragile areas and walk alongside you toward freedom, wholeness and hope.
(616) 226-9636 View (616) 226-9636

See more therapy options for West Olive

Parenting Therapists

What does therapy for parenting look like?

Therapists may work with parents individually, together, or include the whole family to find solutions for the problems a parent faces. Many parent-based therapies work on a parent’s relationship with their children, problem-solving within the family, and analysis of family dynamics. Therapy conducted remotely by video may be helpful in allowing a therapist to observe how families interact in their own homes.

When should a parent seek therapy?

When behavioral problems begin to disrupt the healthy functioning of a family, it may be a good time to look into therapy. If parents find that children are acting out in school, have started using drugs or alcohol, have developed eating disorders, or other similar red flags, a therapist may be able to help.

How long does therapy take for parenting problems?

Depending on the severity of a family’s challenges and the type of treatment utilized, therapy for parenting can last from weeks to months. Cognitive behavioral therapy is a pragmatic therapy type that can be brief, most often ranging from between 5 and 20 sessions. Structural family therapy, which inspects family dynamics, often takes several months. Parent-child interaction therapy is typically shorter-term, lasting between 10 and 20 sessions. For any therapy, the duration will depend on the progress made and results realized.

Can therapy help parents dealing with burnout or stress?

Parenting is difficult. Parents may dismiss or conceal feelings of exhaustion, overwhelm, or escape ideation—imagining withdrawing from their parental obligations altogether. but left unattended, these feelings can have negative effects on the whole family. A therapist can help parents work on the skills they might need to better cope with the burdens of parenting and help them be the best parents they can be.