How Understanding Your Child’s Emotions Builds Connection

Rethinking Crying: A New Perspective for Parents

When I first became a parent, I believed my job was to stop the crying. I thought that if I could calm my child quickly, I was doing it right. I’d try soothing words, distractions, redirections—anything to make it stop. But the more I tried to fix it, the more distant we became. The harder I worked to quiet the crying, the louder the disconnection grew.

Over time, and inspired by the work of Dr. Mona Delahooke, I learned to see crying differently. Crying isn’t misbehavior. It’s not something to fix or control. It’s a signal—a call for connection.

Why Crying Is a Call for Connection

If you’re raising a child with ADHD, autism, giftedness, or trauma history, you know the frustration that comes when nothing seems to work. You’re exhausted. You’ve tried being patient, setting clear limits, giving space—and still, your child’s emotions erupt.

You’re not failing. You’re facing something most parenting books don’t teach.

A child’s tears aren’t a manipulation tactic. They’re a plea for help. A nervous system in distress needs more than discipline; it needs safety. When we react with frustration, it only reinforces their fear. When we lean in with steady, quiet presence, we create a sense of security. We’re not just helping them stop crying—we’re helping them feel seen, understood, and safe.

The goal isn’t to end the crying. The goal is to stay present enough to hear what’s underneath it.

How Online Family Therapy Helps Parents Respond Differently

At Welcome Home Family Therapy, I offer online family therapy in California to parents exhausted by the daily battle of big emotions and confusing behaviors. Therapy isn’t about changing your child; it’s about changing the way we, as parents, show up.

Through our work together, parents learn to:

• Understand the real message behind meltdowns

• Stay calm and connected during emotional outbursts

• Build a foundation of trust by showing up consistently, even when it’s hard

Online therapy brings these tools directly into your home, helping you practice them where they matter most. No rushing to appointments. No extra logistics. Just a direct path to real, lasting change.

Parenting Isn’t About Perfection

It’s tempting to believe that good parenting means keeping everything calm and under control. But raising complex, emotionally sensitive children will break that illusion quickly.

Parenting isn’t about having children who don’t cry. It’s about becoming the steady anchor they can rely on when the waves get rough.

Your child doesn’t need perfection. They need connection. They need to know you’ll stay—even when things feel messy and hard.

FAQs: Online Family Therapy for Emotional Regulation

What is online family therapy and how does it work?

Online family therapy is real-time, virtual support designed to help parents and children reconnect. Sessions are held from the comfort of your home, providing practical tools where they matter most.

Can online family therapy help with my child's ADHD, autism, or anxiety?

Yes. I specialize in helping parents understand and respond to neurodivergent children, including those with ADHD, autism, giftedness, trauma, and anxiety.

My child refuses to participate—can therapy still help?

Absolutely. Often, I work with parents first. When you shift your approach, it has a powerful ripple effect on your child’s behavior and emotional regulation.

How is online family therapy different from parent coaching?

Parent coaching offers advice and strategies. Therapy goes deeper, helping you heal patterns, understand emotional triggers, and build true connection.

What if my child’s emotions are too big for me to handle?

You’re not alone. Many parents feel overwhelmed. Online family therapy teaches you how to regulate your own emotions first, so you can co-regulate with your child.

Do you accept insurance?

I am a private-pay provider. This allows us to focus fully on your family’s needs without insurance restrictions. Superbills are available for potential out-of-network reimbursement.

How do I know if my family needs therapy?

If you feel stuck in cycles of yelling, meltdowns, shutdowns, or guilt, and nothing seems to shift, therapy can help. If you’re longing for more connection and less conflict, it’s time.

About Me

I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 30 years of experience supporting families raising children with complex emotional needs. Through online family therapy in California, I help parents move from frustration and helplessness into calm, connected leadership.

I know what it’s like to feel stuck and unsure. I also know what’s possible when parents have the right support.

Contact Abby

Book a free Discovery Call: here

We will have a brief screening phone call and if it feels right, we will schedule an hour-long, free phone consultation to see if we are a good match for therapy. This is my offering to you, at a time when you are struggling the most.

I help parents become the healers in the home.