Therapy for Family Conflict
Helping San Francisco families build better relationships
Have you ever felt like you're locking horns with your kid? Maybe it's because they know the rules, but won't seem to follow them? Maybe they're uncooperative and talking back in a disrespectful way? Or maybe you just feel like you're fighting too much? Patterns like these can really wear us down and feel demoralizing.
It's not at all uncommon to feel stuck in a parenting rut, and I'd like to help you find a new approach. My focus in parent coaching blends the principles of non-violent resistance (yes, think MLK), the Nurtured Heart Approach®, and core behavioral science to guide you toward a proactive—and not reactive—response to challenges.
Working together will empower you to approach struggles with effective tools and renewed confidence. The result will be deeper bonds, improved communication, and overall healthier, more supportive relationships.
Ready to break free from endless family conflicts? Take the first step toward a more peaceful home.
Understanding Family Conflict in San Francisco
In the fast-paced San Francisco environment, families face unique pressures that intensify normal parent-child tensions. Competitive schools, demanding work schedules, and urban living can create stressors that manifest in family dynamics. What starts as occasional disagreements often evolves into entrenched conflict patterns.
Many parents I work with describe feeling like they're constantly saying "no," issuing threats, or engaging in power struggles that leave everyone depleted. If you find yourself dreading interactions with your child, you're not alone—and there is a way forward.
Signs You May Be Caught in Conflict Cycles
Family conflict can manifest in various ways, and recognizing these patterns is the first step toward positive change:
Arguments that escalate quickly over seemingly minor issues
Recurring battles over the same topics (homework, screen time, chores)
Family members avoiding each other to prevent confrontation
Children acting out more frequently or intensely
Parents feeling increasingly frustrated, exhausted, or helpless
Communication breakdowns where listening has been replaced by defending
If these patterns sound familiar, they're often signals that your family system needs recalibration—not that you're failing as a parent or that your child is "bad."
How We Can Transform Family Conflict Together
The Power of Non-Violent Resistance in Parenting
Non-violent resistance helps parents develop a strong, calm presence while refusing to engage in power struggles. Unlike traditional disciplinary approaches that can escalate tensions, this method focuses on:
Building parental presence rather than enforcing control
De-escalating conflicts instead of winning arguments
Creating connections even during challenging behaviors
Demonstrating persistent care that isn't dependent on your child's behavior
This approach works particularly well for families dealing with defiance or when traditional consequences no longer work.
The Nurtured Heart Approach®: Energizing the Positive
The Nurtured Heart Approach® transforms family dynamics by shifting where we direct our energy and attention. Through this approach, you'll learn to:
Recognize and energize positive moments, no matter how small
Create clear, consistent rules with predictable consequences
Provide consequences without emotional reactivity
Build your child's "inner wealth" of positive qualities
Parents often report that this approach not only improves behavior but transforms how they see their child—rediscovering qualities obscured by conflict.
Evidence-Based Behavioral Strategies
We'll also incorporate proven behavioral techniques that create structure and predictability:
Clear expectations and boundaries that everyone understands
Consistent, effective consequences that maintain connection
Positive reinforcement systems that motivate cooperation
Communication techniques that de-escalate tensions
Each family is unique, so we'll customize these strategies to address your specific challenges and align with your family values.
What to Expect in Our Work Together
Our collaboration typically follows a progression that builds your confidence and competence:
Assessment: We'll explore current patterns and triggers in your family system.
Strategic planning: Together, we'll develop a tailored approach combining multiple effective techniques.
Implementation support: You'll receive specific tools to handle challenging situations.
Skills development: Through practice, you'll master new communication methods.
Growth: As improvements emerge, we'll focus on sustaining positive changes.
Sessions can include parents only or involve children as appropriate, depending on your family's needs.
The Transformation Beyond Conflict
Families who complete this work often experience:
A home atmosphere that feels lighter and more joyful
Children who are more cooperative and emotionally regulated
Parents who feel confident rather than drained
Deeper connections built on mutual respect
More authentic communication among all family members
Many San Francisco parents tell me these approaches improve not only their parent-child relationships but also positively impact their professional interactions and other relationships.
If you're tired of the same conflicts playing out day after day, change is possible. I invite you to take the first step toward creating the family dynamic you've always wanted.
