Definition
Parental counseling is a service provided by the state, which is anchored in the Social Code. Parents who have one or more children aged 0 to 18 years are counselled. Parents who visit a parent counseling center have recurring conflicts or problems with their children, so that the family life is disturbed.
The counseling center looks for possible solutions with the parents in counseling sessions, which take place at different times as needed. The center pays special attention to the parents’ changeable behavioral patterns, which is why self-motivation on the part of the parents to change is a prerequisite for the counseling. In addition, tips on family organization, parenting behavior and child development are also given.
How do I find a parent counseling center?
Parent counseling centers exist throughout Germany and have different sponsors, such as non-profit organizations, church sponsors or local authorities. In order to find a counseling center near your place of residence, you can get advice from the responsible youth welfare office in your region or contact organizations such as Caritas or Pro Familia. Furthermore, it is also possible to find a counseling center in the vicinity via the Internet, as there are appropriate search facilities. You can read more detailed information on this topic in the next article: Educational assistance landscape
How does a parent counselling session work?
Parent counselling is always client-centred, which means that the parents’ concerns and wishes are the main focus and not those of the counsellors. Accordingly, it is discussed with the parents also at the first appointment whether a one-time consultation is sufficient or whether several sessions should take place. In addition, formal matters, such as arranging appointments, are dealt with at the first contact between the parents and the counselor.
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 about the problem areas and about the questions to be clarified. At the beginning, the counselor gives the parents the right of way in finding possible solutions.
During the concrete elaboration, however, he does not only assist the parents with his expert knowledge, but also gives advice and support. Furthermore, it is possible that the counselor only deals with questions from the family and passes on his knowledge in the area of education and child development. During the consultation he can address special developmental points and steps of the children and thus sensitize and arm the family for future problem situations.