I have been completely estranged from my entire family for many years, and I’m getting more comfortable sharing that with closer friends, colleagues, and even strangers.  More often than not, it is someone I am meeting for the first time who asks questions about my family in an attempt at polite conversation.

Certain practices arrive in our lives at moments when we may least expect them but may really need them, those little anchors during times of overwhelm, transition, or heartbreak. For me, EFT (Emotional Freedom Techniques) tapping first showed up about twelve years ago during a season of life that was very challenging, uncertain and painful.

There are very observable patterns in the estrangement standoff between adult children and estranged parents that are reflected and reinforced in the cultural narrative.

“I miss my mom.”  I’ve noticed that this sentence makes an appearance in my thoughts more than I care to admit.  Sometimes it’s not surprising, like when I’m having a difficult day and my nerves and patience are worn thin.  I start craving that support, understanding, validation, and love that only a mother can provide.

An exploration of the ripple effects of estrangement and how disenfranchised grief compounds and impacts the experience

Anger is a vital and informative emotion, especially in healing, but it is often weaponized against the estranged and the estranged community

A vignette of pervasive family dysfunction illuminating the "death by a 1,000 cuts" experience that can lead to estrangement.

This month, the advice columnist answers a question about loneliness and finding new connections.

An exploration of "mother hunger" and disenfranchised grief

This month, the advice columnist answers a question about sibling relationships, clear communication, and family ties across generations.

This month, the advice columnist answers a question about walking away, unexpected losses, and making space for sorrow and for healing.

The impact of conversations denied, distorted or delayed and the misalignment of values.

November is Family Estrangement Awareness Month. The right conversation needs the right place to start.

This month, the advice columnist answers a question about celebrating life cycle events, like graduations, while estranged.

“We inherit pain. When it is not coped with, it gets passed again." - An exploration on intergenerational trauma and estrangement

"How dare you keep MY grandchild from me!" An exploration of how the entitlement of estranged parents extends to our children.

Respect and entitlement are probably THE most often discussed topics within estrangement - and most often incorrectly.

This month, the advice columnist answers a question about being invited to family gatherings while estranged.

Article two of the July Educational Series dives into the often misunderstood role of conflict in family dynamics.

In recognition of July 18 "Perfect Family Day" this month's educational series will explore this topic.