You’re most likely overwhelmed, exhausted and carrying the invisible weight of how you were parented. And if you’re reading this, it most likely means that you want to be different for your children, and that’s where real change begins.
This is your gentle reminder: shouting is not a moral failing. It’s a signal from your nervous system saying, “I’m at capacity.”
Reflection Prompt:
What do I remember about how adults responded when I was loud, upset or angry?
Your child isn’t being difficult to annoy you. They behave like a child – they are a child – learning, testing and feeling.
Your children show you where your buttons are so you can begin healing them.
Reflection Prompt:
I will list all the behaviours that make me feel like I’m about to lose my cool. I will name them and then notice what they stir inside me. What exposed nerve are they prodding?
Build a plan that helps you stay regulated even (or especially) when your child isn’t.
Ideas for a “Press Pause Plan”:
Print your plan. Keep it accessible. Practice when you’re not activated.
You don’t have to fix anything in the heat of the moment – come back to it later with clarity and kindness.
Instead of: “Why do you always act like this?!”
Try: “I’m feeling overwhelmed. I need a second.”
Instead of: “Right! That’s it. I’ve had enough!”
Try: “This is hard right now. Let’s figure it out together.”
These shifts help you move from control to connection.
The best parenting moment isn’t when you get it right. It’s when you repair.
Apologising. Reconnecting. Saying: “I wish I hadn’t shouted. I’m learning too.”
You’re not aiming for perfect. You’re aiming for peaceful – that’s enough.
Download the Worksheet: My Calm-Down Plan for Parents
Email: hello@carolinecrotty.ie
Website: www.carolinecrotty.ie
Talk Therapy: Counselling and Psychotherapy in Cork city centre and online
I do not condone shouting at children. Research shows that repeated exposure to shouting can be psychologically damaging and may impact a child’s sense of safety, self-worth and emotional development. That said, no parent is perfect. Shouting does not make you a bad parent, but what matters most is your willingness to reflect on it, to repair and to change. You can interrupt the cycle – starting now – and build a calmer, more connected relationship with your child.
Remember: your home will be quiet and tidy quicker than you realise. Parenting is challenging and complex. Please talk to someone if you’re finding it difficult to keep cool. I know other parents will affirm whatever you feel. Learn how to remain calm, focused and in control of your reactions – it can be done.
This printable worksheet supports parents who want to reduce shouting and respond calmly to their children even during difficult moments.
What behaviours or situations usually push your buttons?
Before you react, can you name what’s happening inside you? What do feel?
When you’re close to snapping, give yourself a moment – a micro-pause – to remember:
Pause Thought Prompts:
Pick one or two to practise when tension rises:
Use a grounding phrase:
_____________________________
Create one or two go-to sentences that can help you stay regulated:
Use this space to reflect:
This isn’t about being a perfect parent (because they don’t exist)! This is about being present and practising a new way, over and over. I believe that you’ll get there! (eventually) You are not failing. You are learning.
Caroline Crotty | www.carolinecrotty.ie | hello@carolinecrotty.ie
Are you a parent in Cork city feeling anxious, stressed or simply not enjoying parenting the way you thought you might? Perhaps you’re searching for parenting support Cork, a therapist near me, or help with parenting stress in Cork city centre. If so, you’re in the right place.
Many parents feel overwhelmed at different stages of family life. The pressure to be the “perfect” parent, to juggle work, school runs, emotional demands, and your own mental health can feel like too much. If you’re feeling burnt out from parenting, asking for help is okay.
Parenting stress is the emotional strain many parents experience as they try to meet the ever-changing needs of their children. It can look like:
If any of these sound familiar, know that you’re not alone. Many people search Google for phrases like talk therapy Cork, support for overwhelmed parents or counsellor for mums Cork and for good reason.
As a qualified psychotherapist based in Cork city centre, I offer confidential counselling and psychotherapy for parents who are struggling. Whether you’re dealing with anxiety, burnout, parenting guilt, or simply trying to figure out how to enjoy family life again, therapy can help.
Some parents reach out when they’re:
Parenting is hard but it shouldn’t feel impossible.
In our sessions, we create a calm, supportive space where you can speak freely and without judgement. As a psychology graduate with experience in both the voluntary and private sectors, I bring an understanding of the complexity of family life.
Therapy can help you:
You don’t need to wait until you’re at breaking point – contact me to check appointment availability – email is the ideal way to reach me to arrange an initial appointment or to ask any questions:
You deserve to feel calm, connected and capable.
Let’s work together to help you get there.
Caroline Crotty Counselling & Psychotherapy Limited - 636306 - Suite 7, Block A, South Terrace Medical Centre, Infirmary Road, Cork T12 WF40
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