PARENT SUPPORT/COUNSELING

I’m Barb, follower of Christ, pastor’s wife, and mom to four adult children. When one of my sons was fourteen, he confessed to watching pornography. My emotions spiraled. I experienced shock, anger, guilt, and shame. And I questioned my parenting skills. The stigma surrounding his behavior kept me from talking with others, so I suffered in silence. The pain and emotional turmoil left me feeling empty and alone. But I was still obligated to parent my child. I didn’t have the luxury of tending to my own wounds before caring for my son’s. He needed my help and unconditional love.

By God’s grace, over the next several years, my son broke free from his addiction, and my wounds healed. Our relationship was reconciled and continues to thrive. My son is my hero.

Through our journey, I learned a thing or two about pornography and its effects on children, families, and society. I’ve authored Sexpectations: Helping the Next Generation Navigate Healthy Relationships, founded HopefulMom.net, become a certified mental health coach, and been trained as a Sexual Risk Avoidance Specialist. I talk with students and parents about risky behaviors and healthy relationships. Years ago, I was trained to disciple others and have counseled teens and adults for over twenty years. These experiences help me aid parents in understanding their emotional responses and discovering their next steps to healing and parenting their children.

I’d love to connect with you and offer you a virtual hug along with some practical advice and hope. You are not alone!