Deb Shell

I support parents in developing a more effective parenting style by identifying their parenting strengths and weaknesses and developing a parenting style that is consistent with their values and goals.

I teach parents how to communicate more effectively with their children using collaborative problem-solving. They will learn how to listen to their children, express their own needs and expectations clearly, and resolve conflict in a healthy way.

I help parents develop a discipline plan that is consistent, fair, and effective.

I help parents develop strategies for dealing with specific behavior problems, such as tantrums, aggression, and defiance.

I support parents in coping with stress and anxiety and developing coping mechanisms for dealing with challenging situations.

If you are struggling with any aspect of parenting, I can help you develop the skills and strategies you need to be a more effective parent.

I work with the following issues:

• Behavior problems


• Communication challenges


• Discipline issues


• Eating disorders


• Learning disabilities


• Mental health concerns


• Parenting styles


• Sibling rivalry


• Stress and anxiety


• Teenager issues


• Transitional life changes (divorce, new baby, etc.)

Support for Neurofabulous Families.

I work with parents on issues that come up with raising Neurotypical children as well as children with Neurodivergent traits. Our society is built for Neurotypical people, and we need to respect the needs of all children, while also preparing them for a society that they don’t always relate to. I can help identify when to give them support vs. when we are enabling unhealthy habits and behaviors. While I focus on symptom management rather than diagnosis, it may help to know that I have experience working with families who deal with:

• ADHD


• Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD)


• Panic Disorder/Panic Attacks


• OCD


• Depression


• Tourette’s Syndrome/Tic Disorders


• Autism Spectrum Disorder


• Twice Exceptional (2E)

I use a goal-directed, solution-focused approach to supporting parents and families.

When a child can, in most circumstances they will do well. If they aren’t doing well, I join with the family and support them in identifying triggers and areas of concern. We use collaborative problem-solving to find proactive solutions that include adaptive communication, psychoeducation, interventions, accommodations, and a place to reflect on what is working and what needs to change.

I help parents refocus attention on their child’s strengths and abilities while supporting their challenges. When we shift the conversation to strengths, we shift a child’s inner voice from self-doubt to confidence, and that is when I witness transformation.

Let's talk about it.

First Virtual Session: 20 min free consultation.  

Virtual Parenting Coaching Sessions: $150/50 min 

Virtual Child Coaching Sessions: $150/50 min

I am a trained mental health professional with a Master's in Counseling Psychology.  I have great empathy for each parent's personal experience and have extensive knowledge of the latest research-based approaches to effective parenting practices. I have experience as a parent of 3 Neurofabulous kids and have worked as a counselor in a school setting.  I have experience navigating school systems and advocating for getting students appropriate accommodations. 

I hold the value that parents know their children the best and it is my role to help them explore what strategies, accommodations, and approaches will best suit their individual needs.  I listen deeply and collaborate with parents with the goal of turning chaos into calm.

Let's talk about whatever is coming up for you and your family.