“Your Child’s Brain Is the CEO—You’re the COO. Every ‘No’ Shapes their Executive Team

"Welcome back to The Path to Peace Therapy Podcast. I’m Stephanie Buckley—an AMFT Solution-Focused Therapist specializing in ADHD, OCD, anxiety, depression, and bipolar disorder. I’m also a mom to a now-thriving 22-year-old neurodivergent son, and I’ve been married for over three decades. So what you hear today isn’t just clinical—it's lived experience, it’s layered, and it’s honest.

You probably haven’t thought of it this way before…

But I started wondering—what if parents began using the word “No” not as a shutdown, but as a tool for growth?

I kept thinking: How can I help parents see that saying “No” with intention isn’t mean… it’s actually life-changing?

Then it hit me, maybe the message just needs the right frame.

Something that makes them stop, reflect, and say, “Wait… what if that’s true?”

So I created this.

A new way to look at incorporating the word No.”A new way to lead.

I think it might shift something for you, too.

Think of your child’s brain as the CEO— which is still learning how to lead. And you? You’re the COO. The steady hand behind the scenes. The one who keeps the company running while the executive team matures.

Whether you’re in the South Bay-Hermosa Beach, Manhattan Beach, Redondo Beach, Torrance, Palos Verdes, El Segundo or if you are anywhere in California, I offer both in-person and telehealth sessions to help you or your family find the calm, clarity, and connection you deserve.

And remember, peace begins with small, intentional steps. I’m here when you’re ready. 

Let’s Stay Connected!

If today’s episode resonated with you, I’d love to support you further. You can book a therapy session, explore over 65 helpful blog posts, or dive deeper into my resources by visiting:

 To Book An Appointment The Path To Peace Therapy Website 

https://www.thepathtopeacetherapy.com/book-online

The Path to Peace Therpy Blog over 65 posts 

https://www.thepathtopeacetherapy.com/blog

 To Book An Appointment The Path To Peace Therapy Website 

https://www.thepathtopeacetherapy.com/book-online

The Path to Peace Therpy Blog over 65 posts 

https://www.thepathtopeacetherapy.com/blog

Good Therapy

https://www.goodtherapy.org/therapists/profile/stephanie-buckley--20250310

Theravive

https://www.theravive.com/therapists/stephanie-buckley.aspx

This episode is for educational purposes and to provide support. They’re not a substitute for professional mental health evaluation, diagnosis, or treatment.”

The more we learn to recognize the signs behind the behaviors, the more compassion and support we can offer—to our kids, our partners, and ourselves.

Thank you for spending this time with me. If this episode was helpful, I’d love it if you shared it with a fellow parent, caregiver, or educator who might need it too. You can also subscribe to stay up to date on future episodes and check out additional tools and resources at The Path To PeaceTherapy.com. Follow me on Instagram @The Path to Peace Therapy

And as always—take a deep breath, give yourself some grace, and remember: peace is possible, and you don’t have to do this alone