Single Parent Families

Being a single parent can be difficult even if it is a voluntary choice. Regardless how you come to be a single parent, for most people it is not an easy situation.

There are many reasons why people become single parents, and unfortunately our society is often not very compassionate about it. The most important thing is that you do not blame yourself for whatever has brought you to the situation, and that you do what you can to make the best of your situation for you and your children.

Whatever your circumstances, you have to face additional challenges in running a family by yourself, or with limited supports.

You may:

• feel resentful for bearing the brunt of your children’s anger because their other parent isn’t around as often as they would like
• feel unappreciated because your children, your ex-partner, and society in general don’t recognize your challenges as a single parent
• feel exhausted and stressed and worry that you are not being a good parent
• find that you don’t have time or confidence to start a new romantic relationship even if you wanted to

Caring for yourself as a single parent is the best way to care for your children…

In order to care for yourself, it can be helpful to explore the external resources available to you through your social network. This may include your extended family, friends, co-workers and neighbors. Expanding your resources by reaching out to those close to you can help you to maintain your sanity and to care for both yourself and your children effectively.

Through counseling or therapy, you can learn how to get support without sacrificing your own autonomy. You can also replenish yourself and gain more energy so you have more time for your kids.

You can:

• build a close and trusting relationship with your children
• feel confident as a single parent
• find a new romantic relationship if you want one
• develop pride in your single parent family status
• learn to gain support from the external resources available to you and your children
• learn to balance your individual needs with the demands of being a parent

Please contact me today for a free 10 minute phone consultation to find out how my single parent family counseling services can help!