Suzanne Alderson

I know how hard it is to take care of your emotional needs when your child is struggling with poor mental health; self care was almost an insult when I faced my daughter’s mental health crisis. But taking care of yourself is essential for you, your future, and for your child - it really is fuel for Partnering Not Parenting. And the act of committing to exploring what you need is a door to growth, self knowledge and change on our terms.

I’ve been asked many times over the past 7 years to run coaching circles for parents who have been through the Partnering Not Parenting course or who have applied the approach to help with the ‘self work’. And I’ve finally listened!

From November 2023, I’ll be running an intimate 2 hour monthly call where we’ll come together to connect with like minded people, explore our needs and emotions, tackle practical challenges, and support our growth and discovery in a supportive, nurturing and warm space.

If you’re not sure how to begin to take care of yourself, or to work through how you ended up here, or how you decide where you want to go next, this may well be just what you need.

Each month, we’ll meet on the second Monday in the month at 6.30-8.30pm UK time on Zoom. The sessions are designed to be safe and compassionate - a space just for you.

Each session will have a theme - on Partnering, parenting, self care and knowledge, muddling through midlife, plus some of the big emotions we all struggle with. It’s all about you.

In the 2 hours we meet, there will be time to reflect on the past month, to understand the lessons we’ve uncovered both good and challenging, celebrate the needs we have met (or simply acknowledged exist) and the circumstances or support we need to move ahead. We’ll explore exercises designed to connect you with yourself, and others in small groups if you want to join them, and help you to find solace, safety, and strength from our shared experiences.

You'll also have access to a monthly workbook to encourage you to reflect, connect and consider yourself and your needs. And the community is a safe space for you to connect with other parents over the month's focus. I am really excited to embark on this journey with you, but I know it can feel a bit urgh or arghh! Be assured that you’re in safe hands. We won’t be exploring deep or dark things or asking you to introduce yourself through interpretative dance or Playdoh! This is all about nurture and safety. It’s about connecting you with yourself and others, building you up, and empowering you to feel good, happy and safe being you.