I specialize in helping remarried couples or those in a stepparent role navigate their unique struggles.

As a stepparent myself, I am intimately familiar with the challenges that arise in blended families. I know that with the right support, things can be different.

My counseling approach focuses on helping stepparents and their families strengthen communication, build trust, and foster strong relationships. I'll help you explore the feelings of anger, sadness, guilt or anxiety that come with the role of a stepparent. Together we’ll develop practical strategies for dealing with difficult situations and gaining insight into family dynamics.

Parenting is already challenging enough, but when you introduce step-parenting into the equation and create a blended family, it requires even more preparation. While those who have never been parents may feel excited about this new opportunity, the reality is that it often comes with significant disappointments and challenges. This is where counseling for step parents can provide valuable support and guidance.

At its core, step parent counseling is a way for those who are about to start this new journey in a blended family to get the guidance and advice they need. During the sessions, I will work with step parents to help them better understand their role in their step child's life. I will also provide practical tips on how to best navigate complex relationships and address any existing conflicts or tensions.

Challenges Faced by Step Parents

Integrating a new member into a blended family system is a complex process that often encounters resistance. Regardless of the children's ages, the introduction of a new family member can disrupt the harmony. While there may be an initial honeymoon phase, conflicts over loyalty among the children inevitably arise. Even in the unfortunate event of a parent's passing, the loyalty to that parent resurfaces.

The arrival of a new member can create turbulence and chaos within the blended family, often leading to the step-parent being unfairly blamed for any issues that arise. While most individuals enter blended families with the intention of making it work, they may have unrealistic expectations of the children automatically accepting and loving the new step-parent. Instead of trying too hard, it is more advantageous to approach the situation with patience and an open mind. Embracing the unknown and allowing time for everyone to adjust can foster a smoother transition.

Benefits of Step Parent Counseling

Blended family counseling can help those entering a blended family better understand the potential challenges they may face. It takes time for relationships and trust to develop, and there will always be bumps along the way. By obtaining advice from an experienced counselor, step parents can become more aware of common pitfalls and learn how to handle them effectively.

In addition, blended family counseling can help reduce tension among all family members and create a healthier environment. By focusing on listening to everyone's concerns and coming up with solutions together, it helps to build understanding between the parties involved. When everyone is heard, respected, and acknowledged for their contribution, it can lead to smoother navigation of the blended family dynamic.

I provide support in various areas, including helping new step-parents adjust to their role and responsibilities. I also assist in resolving ambivalent feelings and offer strategies to increase connection and closeness within families. Moreover, I help newly merged partners develop family rules and systems that work for them. Additionally, I offer guidance on improving communication between remarried partners when it comes to parenting and addressing topics related to their children, parenting, or ex-partners. Lastly, I am here to help individuals dealing with depression, anxiety, or other emotional turbulence that may arise due to tense dynamics or feelings of isolation.

Counseling for step parents can provide valuable guidance in navigating your new role with confidence and clarity.

Step parent counseling provides resources to help make the transition into a blended family smoother. Through intentional dialogue and guidance, step-parents can develop strategies to foster positive relationships with their step child. Step-parents can also learn what boundaries they might need to put in place to help protect them as they navigate this difficult transition.  With an integrated approach that takes everyone's feelings into consideration, it is possible for step parents to find fulfillment within their new role. 

Step-Parent Counseling: My Approach

There are various approaches to address step-parenting issues, and it is crucial for the therapist to carefully evaluate the most effective one. Most importantly, I want to understand your goals as a step-parent. Do you want to get clarity on your new role? Increase closeness with a stepchild? Find ways to set boundaries with stepchildren or another parent? Work through feelings of ambivalence or isolation? Once I understand the difficulties you are facing, we will work together to create a plan to overcome these challenges. I am trained in several modalities that support working with step parents. I use a human attachment framework to help you better understand your struggles as a step parent or partner. Many of our unhealed parts show up in parenting and in our intimate relationships. Together we will unpack these triggers and work to heal these parts of you. 

Starting counseling for step parents in Denver, Colorado

You've been making an effort to be a team player in your blended family, but it seems like your actions aren't having the desired effect. Don't worry, I can assist you with this transition. Step-parent counseling can be incredibly beneficial in helping you find your place within the family dynamic. By the end of the process, everyone will have a clear understanding of their roles. When you're ready to embark on this counseling journey, simply follow these steps: 1. Start by filling out an appointment request and let me know what's been going on. 2. Take some time to get acquainted with me as your new therapist. 3. Discover your role in the family and begin creating wonderful memories together.

Other Counseling Services in Denver, Colorado

In addition to step-parent counseling, I also offer a range of other counseling services in Denver, Colorado. This includes individual counseling, where I work one-on-one with clients to explore their feelings, beliefs, or behaviors, and identify areas they wish to change. Meanwhile, my couples counseling services seek to improve communication and resolve issues within an intimate relationship. Whether you're grappling with personal issues, you’re looking for help dating after a difficult separation, or you and your partner are encountering challenges, feel free to reach out. Together, we can work towards a healthier, happier future.

In addition to running support groups for Stepparents, I create safe and nurturing environments where individuals can openly express their thoughts, share experiences, and seek guidance. These support groups provide a comfortable setting for you to connect with others who understand the unique challenges and joys of being a stepparent. Feel free to join us and be part of a supportive community that empowers and uplifts one another. Together, we can navigate this journey with compassion and understanding.

I am deeply passionate about providing support and guidance to individuals or couples who find themselves in blended or nontraditional family dynamics. My goal is to help them feel not only capable, empowered, and confident in their parenting and relationships, but also to let them know that they are not alone in this journey. Together, we can navigate the unique challenges and joys that come with these family dynamics, and create a nurturing and loving environment for everyone involved.

If you are in need of step-parent counseling or other counseling services, don't hesitate to reach out.

Book a free, 10-minute consultation with me today.

I look forward to helping you create a happier and healthier family dynamic that is filled with love and understanding. Thank you for considering me as your counselor.