Rachel Eden, M.A. · Certified Parent Coach

Who I am

I am the fortunate daughter of a mother who fought for her individuality and searched for the courage to risk the move away from familiarity and oppression to opportunity for freedom of thought and action. This took us from the Midwest to sights unseen on the West Coast and then to India where we lived for 6 months. At the age of ten I learned to appreciate the importance of cultural differences, the beauty of being awakened to life in all its richness. I was raised to value these differences, to think beyond the culturally expected limitations and to question the status quo. I was also raised with unconditional love and acceptance and know how this bond allowed me to thrive in otherwise difficult life circumstances. I am a person who values relationships, community and extended family, and I am purposeful about creating these connections. I know what it is to struggle and to come through the challenges of life with more depth and clarity of mind and spirit. I am grateful for the entirety of the life I’ve lived, as the synthesis of it all has brought me this new opportunity to work with families in meaningful ways that effect deep and lasting change.

What I believe

I believe in the power of choice and informed decision-making in all areas of our lives such as birthing options, healthcare modalities, schooling, and nutrition. Families are inundated by outside influences or “experts” who tell them the best way to parent. I firmly believe that with dependable research, resources and support, parents can make decisions for themselves, decisions that will meet the unique needs of their family. I believe that we all have the ability to make choices that will bring us closer to our ideal life, one that is aligned with our values and brings us fulfillment. I believe that parents deserve to experience the blessing of being present in each moment with their child(ren) and to parent with presence of heart and mind. I also believe that parents deserve the chance to be fully acknowledged, supported, guided, and celebrated in their parenting journey.

What you can expect from our coaching relationship

In our work together you will experience an inventive process and fresh approach to parenting issues. I come to the coaching relationship with compassion, playfulness, intention, and deep gratitude for the opportunity to co-create the dream you want to live. I will use my sense of humor to diffuse the tough spots but you can also expect me to challenge you, to ask tough questions in order to maintain forward movement, to hold you to your commitment to being the best parent you can be. I will use direct communication and an analytical thought process to assess a situation and guide you to discover your family’s strengths and how to live according to your values and beliefs. I will be your advocate and I will encourage you to hone this strength within yourself. I will celebrate you, your growth and your perseverance, and I will honor where you are and hold the intention for where you want to be. You can expect revitalization and renewed hope as we develop the powerful and life affirming relationship that is parent coaching.

My credentials and experience

My education and work experience all revolve around children and families. From the time I started working as a mother’s helper through my years in the classroom I have focused my attention on positively affecting the lives of children. My initial work in preschool and early childhood education was inspirational as I witnessed the children’s amazing growth and discovery. I later provided childcare for children whose mothers were transitioning from lives ruled by domestic violence to lives of independence, creating new opportunities for themselves and their children. In this environment my focus expanded from a simple enjoyment of time spent in the company of children to a strong conviction and concern for their emotional and physical well being no matter what their life circumstances. As an advocate of quality childcare for all families, I worked for a childcare resource and referral agency and assisted parents in evaluating their needs, identifying important attributes of a facility, and making a sound decision for their child’s placement. My studies in psychology led me through my own exploration and transformation and confirmed my belief in the human potential. I went on to earn my teaching credential, Master’s Degree in Human Development, and became a certified parent coach. Each of my credentials represents significant learning, personal development, and professional gain.

I have worked with many different families over the years and it is this variety and these relationships that bring such richness to my life. This diversity allows me to work with and support a wide range of parenting styles and configurations. My work in the classroom for the past 10 years gives me a unique perspective and an understanding for navigating school systems. I have extensive experience with literacy, having used various models and curriculums to teach reading. I work with students and families on social and emotional development and how those factors influence peer relations, learning, and motivation. I use current research to support practical parenting ideas and discipline techniques. The most significant contributor to my life and learning is my daughter who has taught me how to love with abandon and to grow and change with humility, compassion, integrity, and on the best of days, grace.

Contact Information

Sound Parent
P.O. Box 11272
Bainbridge Island, WA 98110

Contact us by phone at 206-855-9364

Email: rachel@soundparent.com