Parents of Strong-Willed Kids

You don’t have a “traditional” kid.

It’s no wonder “traditional” parenting doesn’t cut it.

Here’s the inconvenient truth

You’re parenting a beautifully complex kid in a world that isn’t built for either of you.

You’re not failing.

You’re not broken.

And neither is your kid.

You're struggling.

Meltdowns.

Power struggles.

Second-guessing.

Walking on eggshells.

It’s…a lot.

Especially when it feels like no one around you gets it.

That’s why I offer neurodiversity-affirming, trauma-informed, connection-centered support for parents like you.

Practical, personalized tools rooted in science, compassion…and reality.

“Working with Dr. Gila has been life-changing!”​

“Before, I felt frustrated, hopeless, and in despair. Now I feel empowered and confident. And my relationship with my strong-willed child has been transformed.

Dr. Gila is gentle, honest, kind, and thoughtful. I never felt judged, and always felt validated and supported. Her coaching is hands-on, with practical guidance I can immediately use with my child.”

— Sara, Mom of 2

Gila Reckless profile photo

Hi there!

I’m Dr. Gila,

(Rhymes with “tequila,” but I won’t leave you with a hangover 😉)

I get what you’re going through, because I’ve been there myself.

Even with my background as a neuropsychologist, I still struggled to support my strong-willed, neurodivergent kiddo (and myself!) through the tough stuff.

So I took a deep dive into learning how to parent him the way he needs and deserves, without resorting to time-outs and punishments.

What I’ve learned – through research and real life – is this:

Your kid’s “strong will” is one of their superpowers.

✘ You don’t need to “fix” your child.
✘ You don’t need more generic advice.
✔ You need (and deserve!) tools, insight, and support tailored to your reality, from someone who actually gets it.

Now, as a Jai-certified parenting coach, I offer connection-centered, neurodiversity-affirming, coaching for parents who want less snapping and struggling, and more connection and cooperation…without losing your mind or crushing your child’s spirit.

“We love that Dr. Gila is evidence-based, but also warm and genuine.”

“Her lived experiences as a mom allow her such an empathic approach, which allowed me to feel so much less alone and overwhelmed. Her deep knowledge, combined with the actionable strategies she gave us, made her absolutely invaluable! And her suggestions WORKED! What a Godsend.”

— Steph, Married Mom of an 8-year-old boy with ADHD

If you’re ready to shift out of survival mode and build a calmer,

more connected relationship with your child (without burning yourself out!), this is for you.

Through virtual calls and supplemental resources, I’ll help you…

Coaching is customized to your needs, and may include a combination of individual and couples’ sessions for those who want help getting “on the same page” with a partner, ex, or other adult in your life.

Together, we’ll find what works for your family, guided by the three interconnected keys to empowered parenting:

🌱 You, the parent

Like a tree’s roots, your groundedness and confidence help you withstand the storms and support the rest of the system. We’ll explore your values, triggers, and inner landscape so you can lead with intention — not just reaction.

🧠 Your child

Understanding your child’s brain, body, and behavior is key — especially when they’re strong-willed, spirited, or neurodivergent. Together, we’ll decode what’s underneath the challenges, lean into their personal superpowers, and build skills and strategies that actually work.

🤝 Your relationship

Connection is the heart of parenting. That includes your connection with your child, with yourself, and with any other adults or kids in your world. We’ll strengthen those bonds with practical, respectful tools that reduce conflict and foster trust.

Ready to make parenting feel less like a battle and more like a collaboration?

Coaching packages start at $997, with flexible payment options available. 

“Dr. Gila has been amazing!”

“She is able to listen and reflect back and reframe as necessary (and it’s often been necessary) without judgment and with so much kindness and solidarity.

I am so grateful to have Gila in my corner and in my head, helping me celebrate the small successes, and gently and so wisely troubleshooting the challenges.

I’ve been able to bring more love, positivity, respect, and playfulness into my interactions with my kids. And I’ve been able to weather and bounce back from the less ideal interactions without feeling as demoralized.”

— Lauren, Single mom by choice

Not ready for coaching? I’ve got you covered.

  • Listen to my podcast, Single-Parenting with Connection (NOT Perfection!)

Struggling doesn’t mean you’re failing. Let’s rewrite that story…starting now.