Poke Pals Making Ouch Moments Easier
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Q: Is this therapy?
A: 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.
Q: Do you need to meet my child?
A: Not necessarily! Most coaching focuses on teaching YOU the strategies. However, if it's helpful, your child can join part of a session so I can observe and give specific feedback.
Q: What if my child has an upcoming appointment THIS WEEK?
A: Even one session can make a difference! Book a discovery call ASAP and we'll see if we can get you scheduled in time. At minimum, I can send emergency preparation resources. Q: My child doesn't have a diagnosis. Can we still do coaching?
A: Absolutely. You don't need a diagnosis for your child to benefit. If medical appointments are challenging, coaching can help.
Q: What ages do you work with?
A: Most families I work with have children ages 2-12, but strategies can adapt for teens and even young adults. If you're unsure, book a discovery call and we'll discuss.
Q: Do you accept insurance?
A: Parent coaching is typically not covered by insurance as it's educational (not therapy). However, you may be able to use HSA/FSA funds. I provide detailed receipts for your records.
Q: What if I can't afford your packages?
A: I have 2 sliding-scale spots per month for families with financial need. Email me directly to inquire. I also offer payment plans for multi-session packages.
Q: What if we try one session and it's not a good fit?
A: If after the first session you don't feel coaching is helpful, I'll refund 50% of that session cost, no questions asked. I want families to feel confident this is right for them.
Q: What platform do you use for video sessions?*
A: Zoom. You'll receive a link before each session. No account required—just click and join.
Q: How quickly will we see results?*
A: Some families see immediate improvements after just one session. For others, building confidence takes time. Most families in the 4-session package report significant reduction in anxiety by the final session.
Q: What if we have to cancel a session?
A: Life happens! Cancel or reschedule at least 24 hours in advance. Same-day cancellations forfeit that session (emergency exceptions considered).
Q: Do you work with families outside the US?
A: Yes! Virtual coaching works internationally. However, scheduling across time zones may require flexibility.
Have a question I didn't answer? Email pokepalskids@yahoo.com
Meet Your Coach
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Hi! I am a Certified Medical Assistant, Pediatric Phlebotomy Specialist and RBT. This has been my heart for a very long time. I've spent 32 years as an parent and countless hours as a pediatric phlebotomist and now working with children with Autism—I know what it's like to be on BOTH sides of the needle. My work bridging medical care and behavioral support has been published in: Contemporary Pediatrics (2025) ASCP Critical Values (2024, 2025) I also wrote "Sam and Sarah Go to the Lab," a children's book helping kids prepare for blood draws. But my greatest teachers have been the children themselves—every brave kiddo who trusted me during a difficult moment taught me something about resilience, courage, and the power of understanding. Parent coaching lets me share what I've learned with families who need it most.
MY APPROACH: Evidence-based, trauma-informed strategies adapted for YOUR child
Downloadable PDF
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Downloadable PDF
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