About Mona R. Spiegel, Ph.D. Expertise I am a licensed psychologist and professional coach. I have been guiding parents and their children for over 25 years and now specialize in coaching women on the telephone for parenting, relationship and personal life issues.
Experience After receiving my Ph.D. in 1977 from Columbia University, I became licensed in New York State as a psychologist. I worked for many years in schools and subsequently as a private clinician. Most recently, I have received training from a professional coaching institute to provide services on the telephone.
Organizations American Psychological Association
International Coaching Federation
Publications MFC Newsletter and Dr. Mona's blog @ http://www.myfamilycoach.com .
Question Hello Dr. Spiegel,
I am a case manager for a child placing agency. One of our main challenges is getting our foster children to behave in school. All the children who are struggling with following social rules are all in therapy, but little progress has been made. What suggestions do you have that my foster parents could implement at home to keep their children from yelling, hitting, being oppositional etc.
Thank you for your time,
Jennifer Q.
Answer Hi, Jennifer. The situations in which the children are misbehaving - school and home - are similar in that they both involve listening to authority figures. It is very difficult for these problems to be addressed and corrected through therapy. On the other hand, coaching has been found to be an effective tool to help children by means of working with the adults who are in charge. (see the article, "Effectiveness of Parent Training" in the Newsletter Archives, Volume Two of my website www.myfamilycoach.com.)
Furthermore, creating a relationship of trust and respect takes time and effort. There is no one "trick" that will work for everyone or in every situation. Therefore, I would recommend a parent support group that would address the relevant issues, discuss strategies, and be a sounding board for its participants within a caring and confidential setting.
I would be happy to lead such a tele-group if you are interested in following this up with me.
All the best,
Dr. Mona Spiegel
drmona@myfamilycoach.com
www.myfamilycoach.com
