The parent counseling
definition
Parent counseling is a service provided by the state that is anchored in the Social Security Code. Parents are advised who have one or more children between the ages of 0 and 18. Parents who go to a parent advice center have recurring conflicts or problems with their children, so that family coexistence is disturbed.
The counseling center looks for possible solutions with the parents in counseling sessions, which take place differently as required. Particular attention is paid to the parents 'behavioral patterns that can be changed, which is why parents' own motivation to change is a prerequisite for counseling. Furthermore, tips are given on family organization, parenting behavior and child development.
How do I find a parent advice center?
Parent counseling centers exist throughout Germany and have different providers, such as non-profit organizations, church organizations or municipalities. To find a counseling center near your place of residence, you can get advice from the responsible youth welfare office in the region or contact organizations such as Caritas or Pro Familia.
In addition, it is also possible to find an advice center nearby via the Internet, as there are corresponding search facilities there.
You can read detailed information on this topic in the next article: Educational assistance
How does a parenting consultation work?
Parent counseling is always client-centered, which means that the concerns and wishes of the parents are in the foreground and not those of the counselor. Accordingly, at the first appointment, it is discussed with the parents whether a one-off consultation is sufficient or whether several sessions should take place. In addition, formal matters, such as making appointments, are regulated when the parents and the counseling center meet for the first time.
For the following session, the parents should appear prepared and describe the family problems to the counselor and ask questions. It is important that when both parents appear, there is a unity over the problem areas and the questions to be clarified. At the beginning, the counselor gives the parents priority when looking for possible solutions. In the specific elaboration, however, he not only supports the parents with his specialist knowledge, but also provides support.
Furthermore, it is possible that the counselor only deals with questions from the family and passes on his knowledge in the area of upbringing and child development. During the consultation, he can address special development points and steps of the children and thus also sensitize and arm the family for future problem situations.
Find out all about the topic here: Raising children.
Who bears the costs of parenting advice?
Educational counseling centers are generally there to resolve conflicts in the family, but also to prevent possible conflicts. Parent counseling is a state service and is therefore state financed. This means that if advice of any kind and support is required, parents have a legal right to free advice.
What is the difference to family counseling?
There are different types of socio-educational help for parents, children and families. While the parent counseling service focuses on the wishes and concerns of the parents, the family institution is at the center of the discussion during family counseling. The main focus is on the social integration of family members.
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What is the difference to parenting advice?
When it comes to parenting advice, children and young people are the focus of advice. The specialists from various fields such as psychology or pedagogy endeavor to clarify the ways of resolving conflicts together with the parents and to help with any problems with upbringing.
Are you interested in this topic? Read detailed information about this under: Educational advice
Parent counseling before divorce
The parent counseling centers exist to identify certain problems or conflicts in the family and to resolve them in good time. In the event of a divorce, the specialist staff for parents is also available.
The range of topics to be discussed is wide. On the one hand, parents learn how to behave correctly in such a situation, and on the other hand they learn how to prevent traumatization of common children.