Exploring Life & Business with Dr. Brittny Torrence of Grace Parent Coaching

Today we’d like to introduce you to Dr. Brittny Torrence.

Hi Dr. Torrence, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
In 2011, I made a decision to move to Dallas to pursue my doctorate degree in clinical psychology. During my training, I intentionally sought a variety of clinical experiences to help sharpen my skills in this area and prepare me for a career as a psychologist with a strong child and adolescent focus. After receiving my doctorate degree in 2015, I joined a child and family group private practice in the North Dallas area, where I continued my work as a child/adolescent specialist. As parents are heavily involved in servicing this population, I often consulted individually with parents and other involved family members to help educate, equip and encourage them when addressing the child’s needs. In August 2018, I transitioned to working with the juvenile youth and their families with unique needs, which has stretched me personally and professionally.

One day, my colleague and friend asked if I had ever thought about starting a business as a parent coach as she knew how passionate I was about providing support and training to parents. I told her, yes! Ever since my experience in private practice, I’ve wanted to find a way to provide specialized services primarily to parents outside of a clinical setting. By the end of the call, I was in tears. I was so grateful that in the midst of an extremely challenging season in my life, God presented this unique opportunity. This idea was birthed in a place of grace. While filled with excitement about the next steps in this new journey, I was extremely nervous about getting started. The idea seemed too good to be true. It seemed impossible. So my research and excitement slowly faded away. Colleagues, friends and family often call to consult about their client’s parent(s) and challenges with their own child or students and during the pandemic, the calls increased.

One of my best friends who has been working full-time from home while facilitating virtual learning with her 1st grader during this time has been stressed and overwhelmed. I knew she was not the only parent going through this struggle and I felt obligated to do something. I asked her if she would find a support group beneficial to discuss these challenges with other parents and receive tips and tools from professionals on how to navigate the challenges of parenting. She didn’t hesitate to say YES! After talking to more friends who are parents and educators also going through “the pandemic struggle,” I knew it was time to take a leap of faith and leave fear behind.

Shortly after, I decided to host my first virtual support group, titled “Virtual learning, Parenting and Pandemic: The Struggle is Real.” I considered this event a “soft launch” as I only reached out to close friends and family and they invited their friends. God did more than I could have imagined! The group was interactive and informative and the feedback was amazing! As the proud owner of Grace Parent Coaching LLC, we will officially launch individual services, groups series, and more in 2021! Some parents might be unaware how their actions, mood and decisions have a direct impact on their child’s life. My goal is to help parents be more mindful, understanding, and confident as they navigate the challenges of parenting and even co-parenting. I believe as a parent gains clarity and strengthens your skills, it will cultivate a healthier and whole parent. I will continue to trust God and embrace the process, I know that many families will be blessed and transformed through parent coaching.

I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle free, but so far would you say the journey have been a fairly smooth road?
This process has been far from smooth. Starting your first business can be intimidating and scary as there is so much uncertainty throughout the process no matter how much planning takes place. Even though I was nervous to start Grace Parent Coaching, I pushed past my discomfort and took one step at a time. Along the way, I’ve faced and overcome fear, disappointment and doubt. There were so many times I wanted to give up on my dream and was filled with discouragement until I realized that pursuing my destiny is greater than my current discomfort. Also, prior to starting GPC, I had limited knowledge regarding financial, legal, and other logistical pieces involved in starting a business. Thankfully, I have friends who have offered their guidance and support in these areas. I am looking forward to fully launching!

Thanks – so what else should our readers know about Grace Parent Coaching?
Parenting is not easy, especially parenting a child with unique needs and limited coping skills. Some parents feel overwhelmed, helpless, emotionally exhausted and label themselves as bad parents. Some parents lack resources, a reliable support system and tools while navigating life stressors. Grace Parent Coaching, GPC, was created to provide direct support, education and skills to parents, caregivers and other involved family members while restoring hope. GPC is unique in the types of services available to the parent. Some parents might need skills coaching and maintenance check-ins, while others might require more frequent support and guidance. No matter where the parent or caregiver falls on the spectrum of level of care, GPC will offer affordable coaching packages that best meet their needs.

Services include but are not limited to: restoring the parent-child relationship, developing coping skills, co-parenting conflict, separating/divorce, grief and loss, blended family, communication challenges, creating structure at home, behavior issues, assisting with therapy and psychological evaluation referrals, and improving self-care. Grace Parent Coaching also provides monthly complimentary group support through the Parent Portal. The Parent Portal is a safe space for parents to share successes and challenges without judgment. The Parent Portal provides support, resources, tips & tools to help you navigate the hurdles of parenting. Additionally, GPC will offer 3-6 week group series at an affordable cost ranging in topics that include: co-parenting challenges and helpful strategies, understanding parenting style and how it can impact my child, improve communication, understanding my teenager’s brain, raising African American children, self-care and support, managing triggers and emotions, and more. Parents, teachers, and non-parents will be able to subscribe to the mailing list so that they are in the loop about upcoming events, giveaways and important resources. Grace Parent Coaching does not offer therapeutic services or direct services to the child. These services are specifically for parents/guardians and educators seeking support and guidance through grace.

Contact Info:

• Email: info@graceparentcoaching.com
• Website: www.graceparentcoaching.com
• Instagram: @graceparentcoaching
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Graceparentcoaching

Image Credits
@JustinBobby