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Relationship and Strength‑Based Coaching for Parents
About This Episode
In this inspiring and deeply reflective episode, Dr. Jamie Hughes-Lika sits down with Janet Harder and Michaela Jelen of JHMJ Consulting to explore their groundbreaking work in parent coaching and early intervention. With decades of combined experience in NDBIs and early childhood development, Janet and Michaela share the origins and evolution of their Relationship and Strength-Based Coaching (RSB) approach—a newly developed, evidence-informed framework designed to build authentic relationships with families and empower parents through truly collaborative coaching.
From their roles in the large-scale PACE Study to their work training professionals across British Columbia, they walk us through their journey of questioning, adapting, piloting, and refining what effective coaching really looks like. They reflect on their own learning as clinicians and as parents, and make a powerful case for meeting families where they are—emotionally, culturally, and practically.
DISCLAIMER that if you want CEUs, you must click here (button), which will direct them to the Thinkific sign-in page
Key Topics:
The origin story of JHMJ Consulting and Janet and Michaela’s collaborative partnership
Michaela’s PhD journey and the development of the RSB coaching model
Insights from the PACE study: Training early interventionists in community-based ESDM and coaching
Challenges of translating fidelity-based coaching frameworks into flexible, responsive parent support
The vital role of therapeutic relationships and adult learning principles in successful parent coaching
Reflections on practice: Believing parents, building trust, and redefining professional “help”
Adapting the RSB model for cross-cultural use, including work in South America
Honest advice for professionals looking to improve their coaching practice
Memorable Quotes:
“Our parents are amazing. When it's a good fit for the family and we support them the right way—what they can do is incredible.” – Janet Harder
“Coaching is more than just techniques—it’s about relationship, listening, reflection, and truly meeting parents where they are.” – Michaela Jelen
“It’s not about the toy. It’s about the strategy, the connection, the support. That’s what makes the difference.” – Dr. Jamie Hughes-Lika
About Our Guest Speaker
Episode Resources
The PACE Study (Parent and Child Early Coaching Project)
INSAR Poster on community-based ESDM
Research on coaching effectiveness and cost-efficiency
Future training and implementation opportunities for the RSB model
👉 Links to research articles, the RSB model, and JHMJ Consulting website will be added to the member portal as they become available.
Get coaching training and mentorship—behavior change requires feedback and reflection
Learn to listen before teaching—effective coaching starts with understanding parent goals
Don't be afraid to say “I don’t know”—honesty builds trust
Surround yourself with peers who challenge and support your growth
Invest in relationship-building—it’s the foundation for all impactful coaching
DISCLAIMER that if you want CEUs, you must click here (button), which will direct them to the Thinkific sign-in page