parental alienation & family estrangement Coaching

Jason Blau Coaching is dedicated to shedding light on the complex and often painful issues of parental alienation and family estrangement. We recognize that these topics can be emotionally charged and deeply personal, and we aim to provide a safe and informative space for those seeking understanding, support, and solutions.

What is Parental Alienation?

Parental alienation is a distressing family dynamic that occurs when one parent deliberately and systematically manipulates a child to turn against the other parent. This can involve negative influence, false accusations, or emotional coercion, leading to a breakdown in the child’s relationship with the targeted parent. Parental alienation can be incredibly harmful to children, parents, and extended family members, leaving long-lasting emotional scars and strained relationships.

Third-Party Involvement

In this case, a third party, such as a therapist, teacher, rabbi, or even a spouse of an adult-aged child, plays a central role in driving the alienation process. Their motivations can vary, but they often manipulate the adult-child’s emotions for their own personal gain, control, or influence.

Motivations of the Third Party

The motivations behind the third party’s actions can include financial gain, emotional control over the adult-aged child, resentment toward the alienated parent, or a desire to replace the alienated parent’s role in the adult-child’s life. These motivations may not always be apparent or rational.

Techniques and Strategies

Third parties may employ various tactics to achieve their goal of alienating the adult-aged child from their parents. This can include spreading false information, exaggerating negative experiences, casting doubt on the alienated parent’s character, or manipulating the child’s emotions through guilt, fear, or dependency.

Emotional Distance

Emotional estrangement involves family members who may remain physically connected but have limited or no emotional involvement with each other. They may communicate infrequently, avoid discussing personal matters, or display indifference or apathy towards each other.

Physical Distance

In some cases, family members physically move away from each other, either to escape conflict or to seek independence. This physical separation can exacerbate emotional estrangement or, in some cases, lead to reconciliation over time.

Communication Breakdown

A hallmark of family estrangement is a breakdown in communication. Family members may stop talking to each other entirely or may communicate only through intermediaries, such as lawyers or therapists. They may also engage in limited and superficial communication, avoiding deeper discussions.

Understanding Family Estrangement

Family estrangement refers to the deliberate distancing or emotional detachment between family members, resulting in a lack of contact or communication. It can happen for a variety of reasons, including unresolved conflicts, differing values, religious beliefs, or misunderstandings. Estrangement can be extremely painful, leaving individuals feeling isolated, hurt, and struggling with a sense of loss. This can take many forms and can be temporary or longer-lasting. Family estrangement can occur between parents and children, between siblings, or between extended family members.

You’re in the right place if…

Ready to co-create a healthy relationship?

PHASE 1

Self-Preparation

This phase is crucial as it lays the foundation for the entire reconciliation process. It involves:

  • Self-reflection

    Take time to understand your own emotions, past actions, and any potential contributions to the estrangement. Self-awareness is key to making meaningful changes.

  • Tools for perspective shift

    Learn techniques to change your mindset and view the estranged family member with empathy and understanding. This may include practicing forgiveness and letting go of resentments.

  • Overcoming fear

    Address any fears or anxieties related to the reconciliation process. Fear can hinder progress, so coaching can be beneficial in addressing these emotions.

  • Validate their perspective

    Recognize and acknowledge their feelings and experiences, even if you don't agree with them. This validates their emotions and demonstrates empathy.

  • Ask the right questions

    Create a safe space for dialogue by asking questions that encourage open and honest communication. Avoid blame or accusations and instead seek to understand their point of view

  • Empathetic listening

    Actively listen without judgment to what your family member is saying. Understand their feelings and concerns, even if they are difficult to hear.

PHASE 2

Building the Bridge

This phase focuses on gathering information and creating a bridge of communication with your estranged family member. Key elements include:

PHASE 3

Implementation and Consistency 

This phase involves implementing the tools and insights gained from the previous phases into your interactions with your estranged or alienated family member. Key components include:
  • Decoding messages

    Learn to interpret your adult child's communication style and emotional cues. This can help you respond appropriately and avoid misunderstandings.

  • Boundaries

    Establish healthy boundaries to ensure both parties feel safe and respected within the relationship.

  • Building trust

    Demonstrate your commitment to change and rebuilding the relationship through your actions, consistency, and honesty.

One-on-One Coaching

Gain personalized guidance and support tailored to your unique situation, helping you navigate the complex emotions and challenges associated with estrangement. Your coach will provide insights, coping strategies, and communication techniques to improve your relationship with estranged family members, promoting healing and reconciliation. With their expertise, you can gain clarity, develop a customized action plan, and receive emotional support to work towards a healthier, more fulfilling family dynamic.

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Group Coaching

Work together in a small group with others who understand your struggles, fostering a sense of belonging and empathy. Group sessions allow participants to gain diverse perspectives, share experiences, and learn from one another’s successes and challenges. Additionally, the coach can offer guidance, strategies, and tools specific to family dynamics, promoting emotional healing and effective reconciliation efforts within the context of a safe and understanding environment.

Podcasts

Estrangement and reconciliation: Teshuva for our relationships

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1840 Podcast

Parental Alienation and Family Estrangement

MASK Family Matters radio show

MASK Family Matters radio show

*  Interview with Jason Blau begins at 54:42 *

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