When I recommend counseling to a client, it's frequently not because I think she (or he) "needs" it to function. It's usually because I know -- from experience and observation -- some of the benefits, including:

1. Perspective. How many times do you find yourself asking, "Is it me? Am I crazy?" Speaking with a good counselor on a regular basis can help you identify what's yours to own and what rightfully belongs to someone else -- such as your ex or your kids.


2. Strategies. A counselor who knows your situation can also help you develop strategies for coping with the challenges you face everyday, from dealing with an ex who's bent on having things her way (or his way), to coping with a parent who subconsciously undermines your authority at every turn.


3. Confidence. Finally, opening up to a counselor can give you the confidence to set boundaries, stand up for yourself, or take the next step in your career or personal life.

If you feel you would benefit from speaking with a professional, contact your insurance company for next steps or call 2-1-1 to access mental health services in your area.

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If only there were a way to subtly give this list to your extended family, right? As tempting as it may be to e-mail it to them or share it with your social network, consider setting the example by helping another single mom you know -- perhaps someone you work with or who lives in your neighborhood.

Remember, too, that it doesn't have to take much time or effort to be an encouraging, supportive friend. Start by asking her how her kids are doing, or offering to share the job of carpooling to and from school or extra-curricular activities.

Once you open the door, you may be surprised to find the kind of mutually-supportive friendship you've been looking for all along.

Get the List: 50 Ways to Help a Single Mom

Related: Weekly Co-parenting Meetings | My Two Homes Resource

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Mother's Day (and Father's Day) can be a bit tricky for single parents without a parenting plan. What if the holiday falls on "your day" with the kids? Do you give it up, reschedule it, or stick to the plan you already agreed to?

If you find yourself in this position, without a firm plan plan that outlines how you'll spend each holiday, I recommend doing exactly what you'd like the other parent to do for you if the tables were turned. If nothing else, your generosity could set a game-changing precedent for being flexible -- and thoughtful -- moving forward.

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What are some of the things that turn you off right away when you're on a date? When the other person takes a call or responds to a text? Talks about himself (or herself) all evening? Or, worse, spends the evening recounting a recent break-up, blow by blow?

There's nothing worse than looking forward to a night out, only to find that the person you're with lacks basic first date etiquette skills. Share your biggest peeves here on the blog by leaving a comment below or sharing your story on the "Readers Respond" feature, Worst Single Parents' Dating Faux Pas.

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• Get a Fresh Perspective on Single Parent Dating
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