Signed in as:
filler@godaddy.com
Signed in as:
filler@godaddy.com
Schedule a Free Consultation
Click on the picture for more information
Debra Ann helps parents navigate and understand complex, challenging behaviors in children, youth, and young adults. Through compassionate, individualized coaching, she supports parents in transforming stress and frustration into confidence and clarity—guiding them toward a practical roadmap that helps every family member reach their potential.
Approach
Guided by the belief that “kids (and adults) do well if they can, with a foundation built on the skill-building Collaborative Problem Solving® (CPS) approach, I help adults support children using a backbone of connection, understanding, and compassion — rather than modifying behaviors through the usage of rewards, consequences and coercion — I believe that compliance is about skill, not will and with every challenging moment there is a possibility of growth when parents learn to confidently lead with compassion, curiosity and a coach approach, especially with the neurodiverse and behaviorally challenging children, youth and young adults.
Supporting Parents & Neurodivergent Communities
With a foundation in the skill-building principles of CPS, Debra Ann works with parents, caregivers, and professionals to strengthen communication methods—so that children can develop the lagging skills needed for more adaptive and cooperative behavior. Her coaching focuses on helping adults move from control to collaboration, fostering mutual respect, trust, and emotional safety within families. Passionate about supporting neurodivergent and behaviorally complex children, Debra Ann empowers caregivers to understand the “why” behind behaviors, reduce conflict, and confidently lead with calm, connected authority.
Experience You Can Trust
Debra Ann has been teaching the Collaborative Problem Solving® (CPS) approach for more than two decades, equipping parents, educators, and professionals to replace coercive discipline with skill-building collaboration.
Originally from Boston and once a “frequent flyer” for challenging behaviors, Debra Ann understands firsthand what it means to feel misunderstood and unheard. Discovering CPS was life-changing—and since then, she has dedicated her career to helping families find hope, connection, and real transformation.
In addition to certifications in ADHD, Substance Use Disorders and Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs), Debra Ann brings the lived experience, professional insight, and a coach’s heart to every interaction—helping families move from frustration to understanding and from disconnection to growth.
Let's start with a conversation. Debra Ann offers a free consultation to discuss your unique needs and explore how we can work together. Complete the contact form above and we will get back to you.

*The Collaborative Problem Solving®(CPS) approach is owned and developed by Think:Kids (www.thinkkids.org), a program based in the Department of Psychiatry at Massachusetts General Hospital(MGH) in Boston, MA. Those CPS Certified receive ongoing supervision from T:K and are independent of MGH.
Helping the Behaviorally Challenging Child (HBCC) is a California Nonprofit Public Benefit Corporation whose mission is to enable children experiencing behavioral health challenges to lead more productive and inclusive lives. We work to transform these children's lives by deepening adults’ understanding of their behaviors, and promoting effective interventions that focus on connectedness, collaboration, and inclusion.
© 2024 Helping the Behaviorally Challenging Child 501(c)(3)
Non-Profit I.D. #46-3240447 - All Rights Reserved.