Finding Purpose in the Unplanned Journey
Shortly after my daughter was born, she developed a life-threatening infection that led to severe complications and long-term medical needs. We were suddenly navigating a world of specialists, hospital stays, and uncertainty—without a roadmap. Like so many parent caregivers, I felt overwhelmed, isolated, and completely unprepared.
Over time, and through a lot of trial and error, I learned how to manage her care, advocate for her needs, and rebuild a sense of stability in our family life. What I didn’t have back then—and what I now offer—is someone who’s been through it and can walk beside you with compassion and real-life tools.
Kristina Smith
Certified Special Needs Life Quality Coach Certified Peer Support Specialist
Rooted in Lived Experience
Parent caregiving asks so much of us—emotionally, mentally, and physically. In the early years, I often felt like I was holding everything together without a map, while quietly grieving the life I had imagined for my child and our family. Kindred Joy Coaching was born from that experience. It’s a space for parent caregivers to feel supported, equipped, and less alone as they navigate both the heartbreak and the beauty of this journey. You don’t have to do this on your own.
Kindred Joy Coaching offers the kind of support I was looking for in my own journey, including:
◆ A trusted guide who gets it
◆ A space to feel seen, heard, and understood
◆ Practical tools for organizing care and finding clarity
◆ Encouragement from someone who knows what it’s like to live this life
As a certified special needs life coach and parent caregiver, I work alongside families navigating disability, medical complexity, and uncertainty. Whether you’re grieving a new diagnosis, feeling stretched too thin, or just need someone to listen without judgment—I’m here.
Understanding and Support
At Kindred Joy Coaching, I believe that true support begins with being deeply understood. As a parent caregiver myself, I know the unique challenges you face—and I’m here to listen, guide, and walk beside you every step of the way.
Coaching with me is personal, collaborative, and rooted in compassion. Every parent caregiver’s journey is different, so our work together is always shaped by your goals, challenges, and values.
Some families come to me feeling overwhelmed and emotionally drained. Others need help staying organized or figuring out how to access resources and support systems. Many are simply looking for someone who understands what it’s like to live this life—and can walk beside them without judgment.
Together, we might focus on:
◆ Supporting your emotional well-being and helping you process the hard stuff
◆ Creating systems to manage care, track appointments, and reduce chaos
◆ Navigating medical, educational, and community resources that meet your needs
◆ Building your confidence and self-trust as a parent caregiver
You don’t have to carry it all on your own. Coaching can be a place to breathe, reflect, and take steady steps forward—with a guide who truly understands. Together, we can navigate this journey—reach out and take the first step.