To the Parents Who Also Wear a School Psychologist Hat: We See You

Being a parent is a world unto itself – a beautiful, messy, exhilarating, and often exhausting journey filled with love, laughter, and the constant navigation of tiny humans. Now, layer onto that the demands and responsibilities of being a school psychologist: supporting students' social-emotional well-being, navigating complex educational needs, collaborating with educators and families, and advocating for equitable learning environments. It's a calling, a passion, and undeniably… a lot.

As two licensed educational psychologists who also navigate the joys and challenges of parenthood, we want to say this clearly and unequivocally: We see you. We see the early mornings fueled by lukewarm coffee as you pack lunches and prepare for IEP meetings. We see the mental juggling act of balancing report writing with bedtime stories. We see the moments you might feel pulled in a million different directions, striving to be fully present both at home and at school.

The truth is, the skills and empathy that make you an incredible school psychologist – your ability to listen deeply, problem-solve creatively, and advocate fiercely – are undoubtedly assets in your parenting journey. However, the demands of both roles can often feel overwhelming. The emotional labor of supporting students and families throughout the school day can leave you feeling depleted when you come home to your own family. The constant need to be "on" and responsive can blur the lines between professional and personal life.

You might find yourself:

• Feeling guilty for not being able to attend every school event for your own children due to work commitments.

• Struggling to switch gears from a challenging case at school to the immediate needs of your family.

• Worrying about your own children's social-emotional well-being while simultaneously supporting countless others.

• Feeling isolated in the unique intersection of these two demanding roles.

Please know that these feelings are valid. You are not alone in experiencing the push and pull of these two significant parts of your identity. The demands of being a school psychologist are significant on their own, and layering on the responsibilities of parenthood adds another layer of complexity that deserves acknowledgement and understanding.

We believe that by connecting and sharing our experiences, we can begin to develop strategies that support working parents in the field of school psychology. We envision a community where we can share practical tips for time management, emotional regulation, setting boundaries, and advocating for more supportive work environments.

That's why we're reaching out to you. We want to hear your stories, your challenges, and your insights. What are the biggest hurdles you face in balancing your roles as a school psychologist and a parent? What strategies have you found helpful? What kind of support would make a real difference in your life?

Your experiences are invaluable in helping us understand the broader needs of our community and in developing resources and strategies that can truly make a positive impact.

Take a moment to share your experiences with us by filling out this short Google Form:

Google Form

Your responses will help us gather crucial information and pave the way for future initiatives aimed at supporting working parents who are also dedicated school psychologists. Together, we can create a stronger, more understanding, and more supportive community.

Thank you for all that you do, both professionally and at home. We see you, we value you, and we're here to connect

Dr. Merenda & Dr. Gilbert