Family Estrangement, Compassion, and the Space Between

Family estrangement is in the news and on the rise. As adult children begin to test boundaries and reflect on how they grew up, sometimes estrangement can feel like the only way forward — and sometimes, it truly is.

Often, the most powerful work I do is in helping clients to see their own lives and the lives of their parents with compassion. This compassionate perspective can create space for a different kind of relationship to emerge, even if that relationship looks very different from what was once hoped for.

One way we explore this in therapy is through the use of the empty chair. Without anyone being physically present, parents or significant others are brought into the room symbolically. With care, sensitivity, and the guidance of an experienced therapist, clients are supported to say what they need to say to the parent — and then to step into the parent’s position to respond.

This can be a profoundly moving experience. Often, it brings clients to a place of greater understanding, emotional release, and self-compassion.

Like so many things in life, it is in holding uncertainty — moving away from black-and-white thinking — and developing compassion for both ourselves and others that we begin to find peace.

Working with family estrangement in therapy

If issues of family estrangement, boundaries, or unresolved relationships resonate with you, therapy can offer a safe and compassionate space to explore these experiences at your own pace.

You can read more about how I work and the support I offer on my
therapy services page.