If you’ve never had a virtual visit with a behavioral health coach before, you might be wondering what it’s all about — and whether it’s right for your family.
Here’s the simple version: A behavioral health coach is someone who helps kids, teens, and parents build healthy emotional habits, manage tough situations, and feel more confident in everyday life. It’s kind of like having a guide for your family’s mental and emotional wellbeing. And the best part? It’s all done through a friendly video visit, from the comfort of your own home.
During your coaching sessions, your coach might help your child with things like managing big feelings, improving focus, building self-esteem, or navigating school or friendship challenges. They might also work with you as a parent — giving you tools, strategies, and support for things like bedtime battles, screen-time struggles, or sibling squabbles.
These sessions are warm, collaborative, and judgment-free. You don’t need a diagnosis or to be in crisis. You just need to be open to learning and growing together as a family.
Good to know: You’ll be meeting with a behavioral health coach, not a therapist. Coaching focuses on practical skills, habits, and everyday support. If it turns out your family would benefit from therapy, your coach can help guide you to the right next step.
Who is this for? Parents and caregivers of kids ages 0–12
Whether your child is a toddler, tween, or somewhere in between — we’re here to help.
What coaching can help with:
Attention
Big transitions (like a new school or move)
Family communication
Gender identity & expression
Internet & screen-time struggles
Mindfulness & emotional regulation
Racial & cultural identity
Sadness & depression
Self-esteem
Sex & dating questions
Sexual identity
Social-emotional skills
Worries & anxiety
What to expect from your first visit
You may be wondering, What will this be like? Or even, Do we really need this? All of those feelings are completely normal.
Many parents who’ve had their first coaching visit say they came away feeling:
Relieved that someone is really listening
Less alone in their parenting challenges
Empowered with new tools and strategies
Hopeful that their family can grow through this
Your first visit is all about getting to know your family and building a care plan together. Here’s how to get ready:
Before your appointment
1. Talk with your child
If your child is under age 5, the appointment will be just for you (and possibly another caregiver).
If your child is 5 or older, you’ll both attend together.
Not sure how to explain coaching? Try saying, “We’re meeting someone who helps kids and parents with everyday challenges — kind of like a coach for our feelings and routines.”
2. Complete your digital forms
You’ll fill out a few questions beforehand — this helps your coach get to know your family and come prepared.
3. Set a reminder.
Add the appointment to your calendar or phone so it doesn’t sneak up on you. Plan to join on time and stay for the full session.
4. Download Zoom.
Your confirmation email will include a link to join. Just make sure Zoom is installed and working on your device.
5. Find a comfy, quiet spot.
Pick a space where you and your child can speak openly and won’t be interrupted. Pets and cozy blankets welcome!
During your first appointment
This visit is about starting a conversation. Your coach will gently guide you through topics like:
What’s going well in your family
What’s feeling hard right now
Your child’s daily routines and emotions
Your hopes, goals, and questions
If anything safety-related comes up, like thoughts of self-harm, your coach will talk with you about how to keep your child safe and supported. These questions are important, and they come from a place of care.
By the end of the session, your coach will recommend a care plan and next steps. This might include:
Sessions with you and your child together
One-on-one sessions with your child
Check-ins just with you as a parent
Everything is designed to fit your family’s unique needs and strengths.
And if it turns out that coaching isn’t the right fit, your coach will help you find other resources that can support your child.
Cost and accessibility
Great news: Coaching sessions are 100% free for residents of California.
There’s no cost to you. No billing, no copays, no insurance needed. We believe all families should have access to support, and we’re here to make that easy.
Want help preparing your child? Have more questions? We’re here for that too. You’re taking a brave and loving step forward — and we’re so glad to walk this path with you.