Debra Ann Afarian, Founder HBCC
Parent Coach - CPS Certified
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, and expertise in 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.
Lisa Pierro ICF ACC
Certified Life Coach - CPS Trained
Lisa Pierro is a Certified Coach through the International Coaching Federation, author, and creator of Calming Your Inner Critic to Stay Regulated. She helps parents of challenging kids, adults with ADHD, and individuals seeking self-growth transform reactive patterns into calm, connected responses that bring more peace and understanding into their relationships.
Approach
Lisa’s coaching approach is deeply aligned with the Collaborative Problem Solving® (CPS) philosophy, the foundation of Helping the Behaviorally Challenging Child (HBCC). She has completed advanced CPS training through Think:Kids at Massachusetts General Hospital, integrating its principles of empathy, skill-building, and collaboration into her coaching practice.
Supporting Families & Neurodivergent Communities
Lisa is passionate about helping parents, caregivers, and individuals better understand themselves and their loved ones. Her work focuses on cultivating self-regulation, self-compassion, and effective communication—skills that strengthen relationships and promote emotional well-being.
Drawing from her own parenting experience and years of group facilitation, Lisa helps families move from reactivity to connection, supporting both children and adults in developing the tools needed to thrive within their unique neurodiverse dynamics.
Experience You Can Trust
Grounded in decades of professional leadership and community involvement, Lisa brings warmth, understanding, and practical wisdom to her work. A lifelong learner, she has completed extensive training through Positive Intelligence®, Wisdom of the Whole Coaching, and advanced studies in embodiment and energy-focused approaches. She continues to expand her expertise through ongoing ADHD coach certification.
Lisa believes that each of us is worthy and capable of rediscovering the calm and compassion that live beneath our protective layers—because when we reconnect with our authentic, caring selves, we change not only how we show up, but also the energy in our homes and relationships.
Let's start with a conversation. Lisa 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.
