Parenting Therapists in Damascus, OR

Photo of Dave Lowe, MA,  LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dave Lowe
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Damascus, OR 97089
If you feel discouraged regarding your relationship I can help. I have advanced training and experience successfully helping couples achieve their relationship goals. Couples I have worked with state that I am easy going, helpful, effective, warm, and engaging. I have training in Emotionally Focused Couples therapy and I am a Certified Gottman Method Couples Therapist. I also have over 10 years experience helping individuals over-come issues such as depression, anxiety, low self esteem, and men's issues. I like helping people successfully accomplish their goals. Call me for a free consultation.
If you feel discouraged regarding your relationship I can help. I have advanced training and experience successfully helping couples achieve their relationship goals. Couples I have worked with state that I am easy going, helpful, effective, warm, and engaging. I have training in Emotionally Focused Couples therapy and I am a Certified Gottman Method Couples Therapist. I also have over 10 years experience helping individuals over-come issues such as depression, anxiety, low self esteem, and men's issues. I like helping people successfully accomplish their goals. Call me for a free consultation.
(971) 338-4091 View (971) 338-4091
Photo of Ella Olson, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Ella Olson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Damascus, OR 97015
Is your child struggling with overwhelming emotions or challenging behaviors? Maybe they’ve experienced trauma, or they’re having difficulty connecting with others. You want them to find calm and stability, to feel safe and supported, and to grow in their ability to manage their emotions. You’re also looking for guidance as a caregiver to better support your child through these tough times.
Is your child struggling with overwhelming emotions or challenging behaviors? Maybe they’ve experienced trauma, or they’re having difficulty connecting with others. You want them to find calm and stability, to feel safe and supported, and to grow in their ability to manage their emotions. You’re also looking for guidance as a caregiver to better support your child through these tough times.
(971) 447-0536 View (971) 447-0536
Photo of Rebecca L Gay, MA
Rebecca L Gay
Professional Counselor Associate, MA
Verified Verified
Damascus, OR 97015
I aim to provide relationally-based psychotherapy through effective interventions that honor the context of each client. My work has focused on individuals and relationships and the healing of trauma through relationally-based, trauma-informed therapy.
I aim to provide relationally-based psychotherapy through effective interventions that honor the context of each client. My work has focused on individuals and relationships and the healing of trauma through relationally-based, trauma-informed therapy.
(971) 247-1972 View (971) 247-1972
Photo of Leah Chambers, MA, NCC, LPC, LMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Leah Chambers
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Damascus, OR 97015  (Online Only)
Now accepting new clients! I am currently supporting emerging adults, college students, and women. Clients often come to me for support with relieving symptoms associated with trauma, attachment injuries, interpersonal problems, depression, anxiety, grief and loss, and low self-esteem. Life can be messy, hard, and painful. I enjoy helping clients process challenges, as well as build skills for managing life's stressors and developing resilience.
Now accepting new clients! I am currently supporting emerging adults, college students, and women. Clients often come to me for support with relieving symptoms associated with trauma, attachment injuries, interpersonal problems, depression, anxiety, grief and loss, and low self-esteem. Life can be messy, hard, and painful. I enjoy helping clients process challenges, as well as build skills for managing life's stressors and developing resilience.
(503) 647-6861 View (503) 647-6861
Photo of Melissa Fox, MA, MFT, LPC, LMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Melissa Fox
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, MFT, LPC, LMHC
Verified Verified
Damascus, OR 97089
Not accepting new clients
Effective communication is the cornerstone to building and maintaining successful relationships. Together we will cut to the core of your anxieties and disagreements, identifying your emotional triggers, and allowing you to process these in a safe and validating atmosphere. Moving you past the hurt, blame and defensiveness and onto growth.
Effective communication is the cornerstone to building and maintaining successful relationships. Together we will cut to the core of your anxieties and disagreements, identifying your emotional triggers, and allowing you to process these in a safe and validating atmosphere. Moving you past the hurt, blame and defensiveness and onto growth.
(503) 822-6175 View (503) 822-6175

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Megan Coggins, LPC, PMH-C, Licensed Professional Counselor
Megan Coggins
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, PMH-C
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Clackamas, OR 97015
I specialize in maternal and pregnancy related issues including pre- and postpartum depression and anxiety and parenting stress.
Are you a new parent or have you been a parent for awhile and you feel alone, depressed, anxious, or unsure of yourself? I understand. If you or your spouse is pregnant and experiencing stress, feeling anxious or keyed up, feeling like you're never enough, I’m here for you. I utilize an attachment perspective that can help you understand how early childhood attachments may be impacting current relationships and how to create healthy attachments with those you love in your life. There is hope to find the peace, healthy coping skills, relationship skills, and personal growth needed to live a happier and more whole life.
I specialize in maternal and pregnancy related issues including pre- and postpartum depression and anxiety and parenting stress.
Are you a new parent or have you been a parent for awhile and you feel alone, depressed, anxious, or unsure of yourself? I understand. If you or your spouse is pregnant and experiencing stress, feeling anxious or keyed up, feeling like you're never enough, I’m here for you. I utilize an attachment perspective that can help you understand how early childhood attachments may be impacting current relationships and how to create healthy attachments with those you love in your life. There is hope to find the peace, healthy coping skills, relationship skills, and personal growth needed to live a happier and more whole life.
(503) 854-5901 x700 View (503) 854-5901 x700
Photo of Sarah Weber, MA, LMHC, LPC, ATR, Counselor
Sarah Weber
Counselor, MA, LMHC, LPC, ATR
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97202
I am passionate about supporting people living with Anxiety, OCD, Panic, Phobias, Parenting Issues & Trauma.
Starting therapy for the first time, or with someone new, can bring up feelings of vulnerability. There’s no right or wrong way to start, or reasons needed to begin. I believe all people can benefit from therapy. After all, being a human is hard enough. With me, the process of coming to therapy is made simple through co-creating safety and trust. I allow space where people can be human, share their truth, explore identities and practice new learning. I’m accepting clients ages 5+ for in-person and ages 13+ for telehealth or in-person sessions. I am trained to support parents of anxious children using Eli Lebowitz's SPACE protocols.
I am passionate about supporting people living with Anxiety, OCD, Panic, Phobias, Parenting Issues & Trauma.
Starting therapy for the first time, or with someone new, can bring up feelings of vulnerability. There’s no right or wrong way to start, or reasons needed to begin. I believe all people can benefit from therapy. After all, being a human is hard enough. With me, the process of coming to therapy is made simple through co-creating safety and trust. I allow space where people can be human, share their truth, explore identities and practice new learning. I’m accepting clients ages 5+ for in-person and ages 13+ for telehealth or in-person sessions. I am trained to support parents of anxious children using Eli Lebowitz's SPACE protocols.
(425) 961-6718 View (425) 961-6718
Photo of Karen Mueller, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Karen Mueller
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97202  (Online Only)
Hello! My name is Karen and I am a therapist with a passion for helping individuals navigate trauma and LGBTQ-related issues as well as depression, anxiety, parenting and pregnancy concerns. Over my 20+ years of experience in this field, I have witnessed the transformative power of therapy and am committed to being a guiding light on your path to healing and growth. My approach is rooted in empathy and understanding, and I firmly believe in meeting my clients exactly where they are. Creating a safe and non-judgmental space, I encourage you to express your emotions and experiences openly.
Hello! My name is Karen and I am a therapist with a passion for helping individuals navigate trauma and LGBTQ-related issues as well as depression, anxiety, parenting and pregnancy concerns. Over my 20+ years of experience in this field, I have witnessed the transformative power of therapy and am committed to being a guiding light on your path to healing and growth. My approach is rooted in empathy and understanding, and I firmly believe in meeting my clients exactly where they are. Creating a safe and non-judgmental space, I encourage you to express your emotions and experiences openly.
(231) 241-8599 View (231) 241-8599
Photo of Jed Smith, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jed Smith
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97266  (Online Only)
Welcome to a safe space where you are allowed to be you, judgment free. I am experienced in helping people heal and move forward with trauma, depression, low self-esteem, family and relationship issues, emotion regulation, parenting, and other life stresses. Seeking counseling is a brave move for your health and happiness. I am here to walk with you as you work toward regaining your balance and peace.
Welcome to a safe space where you are allowed to be you, judgment free. I am experienced in helping people heal and move forward with trauma, depression, low self-esteem, family and relationship issues, emotion regulation, parenting, and other life stresses. Seeking counseling is a brave move for your health and happiness. I am here to walk with you as you work toward regaining your balance and peace.
(503) 386-0598 View (503) 386-0598
Photo of Christina W. Enticknap, LPC, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Christina W. Enticknap
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LLC
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97202
I work with both youth and adults. I help individuals work through depression, anxiety, grief and loss, and relationship issues. I have years of experience working with children and families dealing with divorce, adoption, foster care, self-esteem, school challenges, and parenting/ discipline. I use a variety of tools in my practice including talk therapy, expressive arts, play, and sand tray.
I work with both youth and adults. I help individuals work through depression, anxiety, grief and loss, and relationship issues. I have years of experience working with children and families dealing with divorce, adoption, foster care, self-esteem, school challenges, and parenting/ discipline. I use a variety of tools in my practice including talk therapy, expressive arts, play, and sand tray.
(503) 822-6242 View (503) 822-6242
Photo of Bridget Saladino, MDiv, LPCA, NHA AT, KAT
Bridget Saladino
Professional Counselor Associate, MDiv, LPCA, NHA AT, KAT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97206
I have additional training/experience in Mediation, Trauma Informed Parenting, and The Nurtured Heart Approach.
I provide a therapeutic bridge to healing, improved relationships, and how you want to be. We all experience some amount of trauma, grief, and loss, struggle with transitions, and frustration in our most important relationships. Healing and transformation are possible. You deserve to be heard and seen. I work with all age groups, genders, orientations, ethnicities, and belief systems with an affirming, non-judgmental approach. Are you ready for a breakthrough? I have the tools to help you break through quickly. Just need encouragement? We'll move at your pace on whatever you are ready to face with the tools to keep you safe.
I have additional training/experience in Mediation, Trauma Informed Parenting, and The Nurtured Heart Approach.
I provide a therapeutic bridge to healing, improved relationships, and how you want to be. We all experience some amount of trauma, grief, and loss, struggle with transitions, and frustration in our most important relationships. Healing and transformation are possible. You deserve to be heard and seen. I work with all age groups, genders, orientations, ethnicities, and belief systems with an affirming, non-judgmental approach. Are you ready for a breakthrough? I have the tools to help you break through quickly. Just need encouragement? We'll move at your pace on whatever you are ready to face with the tools to keep you safe.
(503) 852-5662 View (503) 852-5662
Photo of Brenda Niedert, MA
Brenda Niedert
Professional Counselor Associate, MA
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97202  (Online Only)
Are you feeling stuck? Struggling with thoughts and emotions that feel out of control? Grieving the loss of a loved one or experiencing loss in other areas of your life? Having parenting or relationship difficulties? Experiencing a major life transition? Feeling unsure about your future? I'm here to help. Together we can discover ways for you to cope with these life challenges. We can explore goals that make sense to you and who you want to be. We can find safe ways to explore what is holding you back in creating the life you want to live.
Are you feeling stuck? Struggling with thoughts and emotions that feel out of control? Grieving the loss of a loved one or experiencing loss in other areas of your life? Having parenting or relationship difficulties? Experiencing a major life transition? Feeling unsure about your future? I'm here to help. Together we can discover ways for you to cope with these life challenges. We can explore goals that make sense to you and who you want to be. We can find safe ways to explore what is holding you back in creating the life you want to live.
(503) 461-0506 View (503) 461-0506
Photo of Gwen Welch-Slaff - The Healing Haven, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
The Healing Haven
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Milwaukie, OR 97222
Our approach to therapy is tailored toward each unique person, family or couple. We see people with difficulties in relationships, depression, anxiety, recovery from trauma, parenting issues, grief and loss issues, eating disorders and weight issues, chronic pain, career decisions and addictions. Our approach is a combination of traditional techniques and heart centered deep healing. Our approach geared toward finding the source of overwhelming feelings and making connections with current difficulties. Within this process we encourage healthy release of feelings which leads to healthier relationships and positive self esteem.
Our approach to therapy is tailored toward each unique person, family or couple. We see people with difficulties in relationships, depression, anxiety, recovery from trauma, parenting issues, grief and loss issues, eating disorders and weight issues, chronic pain, career decisions and addictions. Our approach is a combination of traditional techniques and heart centered deep healing. Our approach geared toward finding the source of overwhelming feelings and making connections with current difficulties. Within this process we encourage healthy release of feelings which leads to healthier relationships and positive self esteem.
(971) 253-7923 View (971) 253-7923
Photo of Tiffany Machia, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Tiffany Machia
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97202  (Online Only)
I am passionate about the work that I do and specialize in couples counseling, relationship issues, anxiety/stress management, life transitions, parenting/parental skill building, self-esteem and codependency.
Hi there! I know that finding the right therapist can be challenging, especially when things may already feel overwhelming and you're doing your best to keep your head above water. Life gets busy, relationships get strained, and it can be tough to juggle all of the different hats you wear. I believe that everyone has strengths and my goal is to empower clients to work through barriers that may lead them to be feeling stuck. I take a holistic, client-centered, directive approach with individuals and couples. I show up in sessions as my genuine self and hope to create an environment where my clients feel safe to do the same.
I am passionate about the work that I do and specialize in couples counseling, relationship issues, anxiety/stress management, life transitions, parenting/parental skill building, self-esteem and codependency.
Hi there! I know that finding the right therapist can be challenging, especially when things may already feel overwhelming and you're doing your best to keep your head above water. Life gets busy, relationships get strained, and it can be tough to juggle all of the different hats you wear. I believe that everyone has strengths and my goal is to empower clients to work through barriers that may lead them to be feeling stuck. I take a holistic, client-centered, directive approach with individuals and couples. I show up in sessions as my genuine self and hope to create an environment where my clients feel safe to do the same.
(503) 465-4935 View (503) 465-4935
Photo of Lisa M Cutler-Stamm, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lisa M Cutler-Stamm
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Milwaukie, OR 97222
My specialty areas are: Attachment Relationship Issues, Anxiety/PTSD, Depression, School and Developmental issues, Adult/Childhood/Family Adjustment and Transitional Issues such as divorce, trauma, major life changes, Family Therapy and Parenting.
I am a licensed clinical social worker with 13 years of experience working with children, adolescents, adults and families. When I work with a client, I strive to collaborate to solve problems and open up opportunities for each individual to experience themselves, their relationships and life in a more positive, and healthy way.
My specialty areas are: Attachment Relationship Issues, Anxiety/PTSD, Depression, School and Developmental issues, Adult/Childhood/Family Adjustment and Transitional Issues such as divorce, trauma, major life changes, Family Therapy and Parenting.
I am a licensed clinical social worker with 13 years of experience working with children, adolescents, adults and families. When I work with a client, I strive to collaborate to solve problems and open up opportunities for each individual to experience themselves, their relationships and life in a more positive, and healthy way.
(503) 567-4654 View (503) 567-4654
Photo of Melanie Mamola, MA
Melanie Mamola
Professional Counselor Associate, MA
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97267
The fact that you are here, browsing for a potential counselor, is a brave step in the direction of growth, and I would be honored to accompany you on this most heartfelt journey. I work with clients who are struggling with anxiety, depression, difficult life transitions, parenting issues, divorce, and feelings of low self-worth, as well as with those who are sober curious, in recovery, or who want to explore behavioral addictions.
The fact that you are here, browsing for a potential counselor, is a brave step in the direction of growth, and I would be honored to accompany you on this most heartfelt journey. I work with clients who are struggling with anxiety, depression, difficult life transitions, parenting issues, divorce, and feelings of low self-worth, as well as with those who are sober curious, in recovery, or who want to explore behavioral addictions.
(503) 486-3345 View (503) 486-3345
Photo of Dmitri Dosamantes, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dmitri Dosamantes
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Milwaukie, OR 97222  (Online Only)
I help couples struggling with communication, parenting issues, healing infidelity or navigating non-traditional relationships.
I've been in practice for 20+ years and I'm passionate about helping people move forward in their lives. My approach to therapy is collaborative, supportive, and goal oriented. Together we can discover how to break your maladaptive patterns, build on your strengths, and begin your journey to heal. In my practice, you will find openness without judgement and an environment where you can heal the wounds that may be causing low self-esteem, relationship issues, problems at work; or depression and anxiety. Together we can create the changes you want in your life.
I help couples struggling with communication, parenting issues, healing infidelity or navigating non-traditional relationships.
I've been in practice for 20+ years and I'm passionate about helping people move forward in their lives. My approach to therapy is collaborative, supportive, and goal oriented. Together we can discover how to break your maladaptive patterns, build on your strengths, and begin your journey to heal. In my practice, you will find openness without judgement and an environment where you can heal the wounds that may be causing low self-esteem, relationship issues, problems at work; or depression and anxiety. Together we can create the changes you want in your life.
(971) 340-4192 View (971) 340-4192
Photo of Lanette Ambers, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lanette Ambers
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Milwaukie, OR 97222
Waitlist for new clients
I provide a client-centered approach to therapy by working in a collaborative manner to address your goals through individual therapy, family therapy, group therapy, and parent support with the program called Raising Kids with Big Baffling Behaviors: A Course for Parents (by Robyn Gobbel), and NuerOptimal (R) neurofeedback either in-office or at home.
I believe there comes a time in most people's lives when it's helpful to have a supportive person to guide them through challenges they may be experiencing. It takes strength and courage to decide to begin therapy. If this is something you are considering for your child, then you should be commended! As a Certified Synergetic Play Therapist, I engaged in Synergetic Play Therapy (TM), "a research-informed model of play therapy blending the therapeutic power of play with nervous system regulation, interpersonal neurobiology, physics, attachment, mindfulness, and therapist authenticity." - Lisa Dion, creator of Synergetic Play Therapy.
I provide a client-centered approach to therapy by working in a collaborative manner to address your goals through individual therapy, family therapy, group therapy, and parent support with the program called Raising Kids with Big Baffling Behaviors: A Course for Parents (by Robyn Gobbel), and NuerOptimal (R) neurofeedback either in-office or at home.
I believe there comes a time in most people's lives when it's helpful to have a supportive person to guide them through challenges they may be experiencing. It takes strength and courage to decide to begin therapy. If this is something you are considering for your child, then you should be commended! As a Certified Synergetic Play Therapist, I engaged in Synergetic Play Therapy (TM), "a research-informed model of play therapy blending the therapeutic power of play with nervous system regulation, interpersonal neurobiology, physics, attachment, mindfulness, and therapist authenticity." - Lisa Dion, creator of Synergetic Play Therapy.
(503) 567-6230 View (503) 567-6230
Photo of Sandra Caroompas Psychotherapist, MA, LMFT, LLC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sandra Caroompas Psychotherapist
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, LLC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97202  (Online Only)
I specialize in treating Individuals, Children, Couples, and Families for Anxiety, performance Anxiety, ADD/ADHD, OCD, PTSD, Trauma, Stress,Life Transitions, Behavioral Problems, Peer Related Issues, Relationship Difficulties, School/Work Issues, Self-Esteem, Panic, Dissociation, Parenting Concerns, Tourette Disorder, and more.
Life is a journey! Do you feel overwhelmed, distressed, disconnected or lost, is your life hard to navigate. I believe that compassionate, reflective therapy can help restore vitality and renew hope. Individuals, couples, children/families, experience emotional struggles and challenging behaviors because of the impact of a variety of past and present variables, not because of weakness. Symptoms/Behaviors are simply indicators of need, and actually illuminate innate strength that guides healing. I'mabout collaborating with you to build strengths, explore barriers to enjoyment of life, and create a joyful resilience.
I specialize in treating Individuals, Children, Couples, and Families for Anxiety, performance Anxiety, ADD/ADHD, OCD, PTSD, Trauma, Stress,Life Transitions, Behavioral Problems, Peer Related Issues, Relationship Difficulties, School/Work Issues, Self-Esteem, Panic, Dissociation, Parenting Concerns, Tourette Disorder, and more.
Life is a journey! Do you feel overwhelmed, distressed, disconnected or lost, is your life hard to navigate. I believe that compassionate, reflective therapy can help restore vitality and renew hope. Individuals, couples, children/families, experience emotional struggles and challenging behaviors because of the impact of a variety of past and present variables, not because of weakness. Symptoms/Behaviors are simply indicators of need, and actually illuminate innate strength that guides healing. I'mabout collaborating with you to build strengths, explore barriers to enjoyment of life, and create a joyful resilience.
(541) 216-6743 View (541) 216-6743
Photo of Helene Hanson, CSWA
Helene Hanson
Clinical Social Work Associate, CSWA
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97206
I also offer parent coaching and parenting support groups for parents and caregivers of neurodiverse children and teens/young adults.
I work with children who are struggling with big feelings and big behaviors. Maybe your child has experienced a loss, a change in family structure, or experiences neurodivergence... or maybe you're not sure what is at the root of your child's struggles. Together, we will work closely to understand the needs that lie beneath your child's behavior. As an adoptee and an adoptive parent, I am deeply familiar with foster care and adoption trauma and I am honored to support families navigating the complexity of adoption.
I also offer parent coaching and parenting support groups for parents and caregivers of neurodiverse children and teens/young adults.
I work with children who are struggling with big feelings and big behaviors. Maybe your child has experienced a loss, a change in family structure, or experiences neurodivergence... or maybe you're not sure what is at the root of your child's struggles. Together, we will work closely to understand the needs that lie beneath your child's behavior. As an adoptee and an adoptive parent, I am deeply familiar with foster care and adoption trauma and I am honored to support families navigating the complexity of adoption.
(971) 251-1344 View (971) 251-1344

See more therapy options for Damascus

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.