Parent Coaching for Pediatric Blood Draw Anxiety

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No. Parent coaching is educational support focused on practical strategies for medical preparation. I teach you how to support your child. This is not a substitute for medical or mental health treatment.

Not necessarily. Most sessions focus on teaching caregivers strategies they can use right away. If helpful, your child may join part of a session so I can observe and offer specific guidance.

Even one session can help. If you have an upcoming appointment, book a discovery call as soon as possible. At minimum, I can share targeted preparation resources.

Absolutely. A diagnosis is not required. If medical appointments are stressful, these strategies can help.

Most families I work with have children ages 2–12, though strategies can adapt for teens and young adults. If you’re unsure, we can talk through it.

Absolutely. A diagnosis is not required. If medical appointments are stressful, these strategies can help.

Most families I work with have children ages 2–12, though strategies can adapt for teens and young adults. If you’re unsure, we can talk through it.

Zoom. You’ll receive a link before each session — no account required.

Some families notice immediate changes after one session. Others see gradual improvement over several sessions. Most families completing a 4-session package report a significant reduction in anxiety by the final session.

Sessions can be rescheduled with at least 24 hours’ notice. Same-day cancellations forfeit the session (emergencies considered case-by-case).

Zoom. You’ll receive a link before each session — no account required.

Some families notice immediate changes after one session. Others see gradual improvement over several sessions. Most families completing a 4-session package report a significant reduction in anxiety by the final session.

Sessions can be rescheduled with at least 24 hours’ notice. Same-day cancellations forfeit the session (emergencies considered case-by-case).

Have a question I didn't answer?  Email pokepalskids@yahoo.com

I’m Franchesca Kelly, an ASCP-certified pediatric phlebotomist and Registered Behavior Technician (RBT).

I’ve spent years supporting anxious and neurodivergent children during blood draws and other medical procedures — and I know what it’s like to be on both sides of the needle: the provider trying to complete the procedure, and the parent watching their child struggle.

My work bridging pediatric phlebotomy and behavioral science has been published in Contemporary Pediatrics and ASCP Critical Values. Through Poke Pals, I help families use comfort-first, evidence-informed strategies to reduce fear and build confidence around medical care.

MY APPROACH: Evidence-based, trauma-informed strategies adapted for YOUR child

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