Helping a child deal with depression and having trouble going to school

Celeste G.

My son was so depressed for a year and a half, that he missed a large part of the school year. At first, I didn’t understand or recognize it as depression, and I was pushing him to go to school very hard, which led to him getting even more frustrated with himself. After talking to a family coach, we were able to diagnose the real issue, and ask my son open ended questions to try and understand the reasons behind his depression. Then when I took the pressure off and worked on helping him feel good about himself, the depression was able to lift and he made all A’s at school the next year, and made several friends he could hang out with after school as well.

Healing from anger issues

Celeste G.

I didn’t really realize that I had anger issues until I got married and had kids. Then I discovered that when my husband and I had arguments, I couldn’t let things go and would feel so wounded by him wanting to retreat from an argument that I would explode. This looked like being verbally abusive, and even throwing things or hitting him. I would feel so ashamed afterwards and apologize profusely. I desperately wanted to change. I eventually went to see a counselor and talked through different ways to communicate with my husband, and because I valued the relationship so deeply I managed to stop exploding with him. Unfortunately, this meant that a lot of anger was then directed at my kids. After years of struggling to manage my anger, I finally realized the need for a deep healing journey, to uncover the unconscious roots that were underneath the explosive rage. In the process I became very good at identifying my feelings underneath the anger, since anger is a secondary emotion. Knowing what those underlying feelings are has been very helpful for me, along with what my triggers are. I have also discovered some healthy ways to vent anger that don’t hurt other people that I could share with you. Today I still experience anger sometimes, everyone does, but it no longer controls my life and I don’t see it as an awful thing that I have to avoid or hold in until I just can’t anymore. Instead, it can be an indication of where I still need some healing, or a healthy emotion that I feel when someone hurts me that I can release or confidently express without doing damage.

Supporting a loved one through family estrangement

Aditya R.

A few years ago, my family went through a tough chapter. Right before the pandemic, my brother had a falling out with my mom and they became estranged for four years. It was painful for her to be cut off, especially from her grandchildren, and I could see how much it affected her emotionally. At first, I tried to fix it—I felt like I had to patch everything up. That didn’t work. I eventually realized I couldn’t control the situation, but I could be a steady presence for both of them. I helped my mom find other ways to stay connected with joy—encouraging her to stay active, find new outlets, and reflect honestly on how things got to where they were. I also gently guided her toward being open to hard, vulnerable conversations that could slowly open the door to healing. Over time, the ice began to thaw. While the relationship isn’t what it once was, they’re talking again, and there’s genuine progress. That experience showed me just how complicated—but possible—reconnection can be. And I’d love to be a sounding board for anyone trying to support a loved one through estrangement. It’s never a straight path, but you don’t have to walk it alone.

Navigating family dynamics while healing from trauma

Adley H.

Healing from trauma often feels like swimming upstream, especially when the people around you don’t understand or acknowledge your pain. Family dynamics can be some of the hardest waters to navigate. The same people who hurt you are often the ones you feel obligated to stay connected to, or even love in ways that don’t honor your own healing. I’ve had to face this challenge myself—balancing the desire for connection with the need for self-protection. The truth is, healing from trauma doesn’t always mean cutting off family. Sometimes, it means learning how to show up for yourself in their presence. Setting boundaries that are both firm and loving. And learning to hold space for the reality that people may never change in the ways you want them to. In my own journey, I’ve had to face painful truths about my family’s role in my trauma. I’ve had to find the courage to protect myself while still navigating relationships that are deeply rooted in my history. And I’ve learned that healing isn’t just about what you leave behind—it’s also about how you choose to move forward, even with the difficult people and dynamics still in your life. If you’re struggling with how to show up for yourself while still holding space for family, I’d love to talk. You don’t have to go through it alone.

Navigating multicultural marriage

Alice Y.

I’ve always been independent, doing things my own way, but when I entered my multicultural marriage, I quickly learned that navigating different cultural backgrounds required me to adapt and grow. Growing up in Florida and living in places like Chicago and Alameda, I’m no stranger to change, but merging two distinct cultures in a relationship has been a unique journey. Every day brings new challenges, from understanding each other’s traditions and customs to finding common ground on how we communicate and approach conflict. There are moments of tension when we don’t see eye to eye, but we’ve learned to embrace our differences and use them as opportunities to learn and grow together. Over time, I’ve become more attuned to the nuances of our relationship, and I now approach each situation with patience, empathy, and a willingness to find creative solutions. What I’ve realized is that, while our cultures may shape us in different ways, our shared values and love for each other are what truly bind us. Through my own experience, I’ve gained valuable insights that I love to share with others in similar relationships—helping them navigate the complexities of cultural differences while building a deeper, more fulfilling connection with their partners.

Navigating collectivistic cultures while living in individualistic norms

Ambika M.

As a daughter of traditional South Asian immigrants, my upbringing was quite different than my American peers. I still hesitate to share if I'm hanging out with a male friend, even though I am pestered about marriage. Getting older has also involved outgrowing attitudes about myself, family, and relationships that hold me back, guilt included. I've worked to find my authentic self and accept occasionally being the black sheep in my close-knit family whom I love being near, but still need to enact boundaries with or know when to deep breathe instead of react. This also involves understanding the challenges with comparing to cousins in India, or peers whose parents grew up in America. If you've been stressed by the conflict of the third-culture sandwich, I'd love to chat.

Handling a difficult parent and learning from their mistakes

Brandon S.

I grew up in a conservative Baptist Christian family, where my siblings and I were always under a microscope. My mother was self-centered and egotistical, a trait she still carries to this day. This environment shaped my views on relationships, especially how I navigate family connections. Despite the challenges with my parents, I’ve always tried to teach my children the importance of love and acceptance. I encourage them to be the bigger person, even when faced with difficult behavior from family members, including their grandparents. My journey hasn’t been easy, but through navigating a single-parent household, becoming part of a stepfamily, and experiencing three significant relationships, I’ve learned invaluable lessons about love, commitment, and communication. These experiences have shaped my ability to set healthy boundaries, manage expectations, and cultivate meaningful connections. I firmly believe in the power of love and acceptance for all, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity, and I strive to instill these values in my family and relationships.

Navigating depression while living at home in your 20s

Brianna E.

I’m in my 20s, living at home while I work on my graduate degree online. It hasn’t always been easy—especially managing depression and anxiety in a household that sometimes lacks emotional understanding. I’ve struggled with feeling lonely, unappreciated, and misunderstood, particularly with family members who show narcissistic tendencies. I’ve also had to balance chronic health conditions and ADHD, which can make even basic tasks feel overwhelming. I used to be more socially active, but over time I’ve learned that low-maintenance friendships and solo travel once a year work best for my energy. I’ve stopped drinking for health reasons, which made me feel more in control but also a little left out at times. Journaling, music therapy, and meditation have become essential tools in my healing. Therapy and medication helped too, but so did learning to truly be on my own side. Living at home as a young adult with mental health struggles can feel like being stuck—but I’ve found ways to move forward, even from within the same walls. If that sounds like what you're going through, I’d love to talk.

Building emotional safety for your kids after family trauma

Brittney R.

When I left my first marriage, my children and I were all carrying invisible scars. The home we lived in had been filled with fear, silence, and confusion. I knew I wanted something different for them and for me. But I also knew that healing wasn’t going to happen on its own. So I created what we started calling our “family therapy room”, just a quiet space with pillows, blankets, and no judgment. It became the one place where we could all sit together, breathe, cry, talk, or just be. As a mom, I didn’t have all the answers, but I had the willingness to listen and show up emotionally. Over time, I learned how to speak to my kids in ways that made them feel heard, not pressured. I worked through my own pain in therapy, and shared pieces of that healing with them in ways that were age-appropriate. I learned how to apologize, how to validate their feelings, and how to co-create trust even after hard experiences. My goal wasn’t to be perfect. It was to be safe, real, and open. I believe we can break cycles by teaching our children how to feel and speak their truths. If you’re navigating life after family trauma and want to support your children emotionally, I’d love to share what worked for me and walk with you as you figure out what will work for your family.

Healing from emotionally abusive family dynamics

Cheyenne H.

I know what it’s like to carry the weight of emotionally abusive family dynamics. For a long time, I felt trapped in patterns of control, manipulation, and guilt from people I was supposed to trust. It took time—and a lot of inner work—to recognize what was happening and find the strength to set boundaries. As a certified hypnotherapist, I’ve also supported others navigating the same kind of pain, helping them untangle their emotions, rebuild their self-worth, and speak up for themselves. Healing starts when we stop minimizing what we’ve been through. I’m here to hold space for that process, and to remind you that it’s okay to choose your peace.

Raising a son alone and rebuilding after heartbreak

De A.

I became a single mom to my son when he was very young. His father wasn’t involved, so it was just me and him, figuring life out together. There were tough moments, like when he got in trouble at school for stealing, and I knew I had to step up even more — not with judgment, but with love, attention, and calm communication. Over time, I learned how important it was to be patient, to create a space where he felt supported even when he made mistakes. Meanwhile, my own relationship challenges left me feeling isolated and overwhelmed. I leaned heavily on prayer, therapy, and the support of a few close friends to keep going. Now that my son is grown and out on his own, I can look back and see how strong those years made both of us. I still believe in love and new beginnings — and I believe that no matter how hard things get, you can find peace, strength, and hope again.

Parenting a teen with anxiety and an eating disorder

Emma C.

I’m a mom of two teenage girls, and over the years, our family has been on a journey that’s been both incredibly challenging and deeply transformative. My oldest daughter began struggling with anxiety at a young age, and more recently, she’s been navigating an eating disorder and OCD. As a parent, it’s been heartbreaking to watch her in pain and not always know how to help. We’ve tried therapy, family counseling, and many types of support—but honestly, some of the most comforting and helpful moments have come from simply talking to other parents who get it. There’s something powerful about not having to explain every detail, or feel judged for how hard it really is. The worry, the fear, the guilt—it can be overwhelming. But sharing the journey with someone who’s been there makes all the difference. That’s why I want to be that person for other parents. You’re not alone, and your child is not broken. There’s hope, even in the hard moments. I’m here to talk through it all with you.

Growing up around addiction and finding your own path

Heather D.

I grew up in a home marked by instability—my parents divorced when I was young, and I lived with my mother, who struggled with addiction and mental health challenges. Things were hard, and when they became unsafe, I was placed in my father’s care. At first, it felt like a fresh start, but after his father passed away, I watched him begin using substances to cope too. That grief and addiction took a toll on our relationship and on me. Eventually, I made the choice to live with my aunt, trying to find some peace and safety. I lost my dad to cancer nine years ago, and just two years later, my mom passed away from an overdose. The weight of those losses changed me, but it also deepened my empathy and gave me a strong sense of purpose. I’ve seen what not to do in relationships, but I’ve also learned how to break those patterns.

Healing from domestic violence while protecting your children's well being

JoAnne C.

As a recently remarried mother of three teens, two of whom are neurodivergent, I’ve experienced my share of challenges, especially after the loss of my children’s father to cancer. Navigating grief alongside parenting has been one of the hardest things I’ve ever done, but it’s also been an opportunity for immense growth. Before this chapter, I spent years as a single parent, raising my children on my own. During that time, I faced significant challenges, including managing anger issues with one of my children. Seeking support through doctors and groups was crucial in helping me address these issues. I’m also a survivor of domestic violence, and though I carry mild PTSD, I’ve worked hard to heal and grow. Over the years, I’ve become a life coach, guiding others through their own life transitions, especially those who are navigating grief, single parenting, or coming out of toxic relationships. I want to offer my experience to others, particularly mothers of toddlers and pre-teens, those experiencing the challenges of homebirthing, and survivors of domestic violence who need support in moving forward.

Becoming a better parent through sobriety

Kari K.

From a young age, I knew I wanted to be a different kind of mother than the one I had. Growing up with a mother who had Borderline Personality Disorder, I saw firsthand how challenging and unpredictable relationships could be. My mother’s emotional instability and our difficult relationship shaped my belief that I could do better for my own children. I wanted to be loving, supportive, and stable—the kind of parent who could offer a safe and nurturing environment. But as life unfolded, I found myself in a 30-year marriage that was unhealthy and abusive. My coping mechanism became alcohol. I didn’t know how else to deal with the emotional weight of my situation, so I turned to drinking to numb the pain. I thought it was helping me survive, but it was only making things worse. My children became distant, and I lost the connection I had always hoped to build with them. In 2021, I made the difficult decision to get sober. But sobriety wasn’t just about quitting alcohol, it was about finally becoming the mother I had always wanted to be. It took time, but I worked hard to rebuild trust with my sons and heal from the emotional wounds I had carried for so long. Sobriety gave me the clarity and strength to reflect on my past and the impact my actions had on my family. With patience, self-compassion, and a commitment to change, I began to repair my relationship with my sons, and today, we have a much stronger and healthier bond.

Navigating the ups and downs of parenting through all stages

Kathy G.

I’ve spent years as a mother of three adult children and grandmother to three beautiful grandkids. From managing my husband’s chronic health challenges to guiding my kids through their own personal struggles, bullying, and the tough transitions of school, I’ve been through the full spectrum of parenting experiences. Balancing being both a part-time working parent and a full-time mom, I’ve learned how to be present while also finding time for myself. The hardest part of parenting has been learning to let go as my kids grew up, all while staying deeply connected. Today, we have a close-knit family, and I’ve found that even though they’re adults now, the bond we share continues to be strong. My goal is to offer support and wisdom from the many years of navigating parenting’s tough moments, especially when it comes to transitions, letting go, and staying connected to your children through all the stages of life.

Growing up adopted without cultural connection

Katie G.

I’m a Korean adoptee who grew up in a white family in the U.S. Without anyone around me who looked like me or understood what it meant to be Asian, I spent much of my childhood and adolescence feeling disconnected from my identity. It wasn’t until adulthood that I began actively searching for my birth family—a journey that started in 2009 and has included DNA testing, being featured on Korean national television, and even sharing my story on social media to connect with others. That search has been both empowering and deeply emotional. Navigating the complexities of adoption as an adult meant coming to terms with what I missed growing up—language, cultural understanding, and a sense of belonging. It also gave me a new lens for understanding my emotions and the grief that can live quietly in the background of adoptee experiences. I’ve had heartfelt conversations with parents of adopted kids, helping them figure out how and when to talk to their children about adoption in a way that feels honest, safe, and ongoing. I know how powerful it is to finally feel seen. I want to offer that same kind of space to anyone who’s wrestling with identity, loss, or belonging in the adoptee journey.

Parenting while managing mental health challenges

Kevin B.

When my parents passed away from cancer, I lost everything not just material things, but my emotional footing too. Living with Bipolar Disorder and PTSD already made it tough to be fully present for my kids, and after that loss, it became even harder. For a long time, I was physically there but emotionally checked out, watching my kids grow without really connecting with them. About four years ago, I realized I couldn’t keep living like that. Through therapy, meditation, and a whole lot of self-help books, I began to heal and truly show up for my family. Today, I homeschool my 12-year-old son, and I've rebuilt strong, meaningful relationships with all three of my children. I’m not a perfect dad, no one is but I’ve learned that being consistent, self-aware, and patient makes all the difference. If you’re trying to parent while managing mental health challenges, I want you to know: you’re not broken, and you don’t have to do it alone.

Advocating for your or your child’s educational needs

Lauren B.

Whether you're a parent or a student yourself, I can be there to support you. I've advocated for students' needs not only in my role as a special educator, but also in helping parents prep for IEP/ARD meetings, students self-advocate as minors and adults, and in my own child's life with a 504 plan. I didn't receive services myself growing up because my learning disability wasn't recognized, and I hate to see that happen to others. I know how to identify student needs and goals and communicate those needs to school staff.

Healing a strained relationship with a parent

Lori T.

For most of my life, my relationship with my mother was difficult, filled with conflict, arguments, and long periods of avoidance. This was painful, not just because of the distance between us, but also because it limited my relationship with my father. As I got older, I realized that while I couldn’t change her, I could change my own reactions. Through intentional work—building tolerance, focusing on the positives, and managing my triggers—I’ve been able to shift how we interact. Today, our relationship is loving and much stronger than I ever thought it could be. Along the way, I also navigated tense relationships with several bosses, often needing to check my own stubbornness and ego. Meditation practices and Buddhist teachings have helped me stay grounded, approach conflict with compassion, and resolve issues without harboring resentment. Healing difficult relationships is challenging, but absolutely possible, and I’m here to help you find your own path through it.