Emotional parentification

Do you ever wonder if your relationship with your mother (or maternal impactor) is “normal”? Are you curious about how it has affected you as an adult? Mother-daughter relationships can be complicated and in this episode, I’m breaking down the 7 types of dynamics I’ve seen the most in my 25 years as a psychotherapist, plus the lasting impact each type has on emotions and behaviors in adulthood.

When we take on adult roles, whether physically or emotionally, we lose out on part of our childhood and we can lose connection with the playful, joy filled part of ourselves. It IS possible …

There are four different types of emotionally immature parents, but at the root of each type is poor emotional development, a lack of relational skills, self-centeredness, and a struggle to develop deep emotional intimacy with their children. If you have an emotionally immature parent, it is wise to exercise discernment regarding the things you share with them. Have boundaries, and remember that some things are not your parents’ business.

Growing up with emotionally immature parents can leave lasting marks, often influencing our behaviors in ways we don’t even recognize. This influence isn’t about choice. When your parents are emotionally […] More

Toxic Family Dynamics come in various forms and can damage a child’s development in visible and invisible ways.

Let’s start with emotionally immature parents. Your parents were emotionally immature because THEIR parents were emotionally immature. Emotional maturity is passed through family lines. If we are raised by people who know how to have healthy boundaries, self-regulate, have functional, healthy relationships, self-reflect and share space and love most of the time, we have a head start. We will likely learn how to do these things too. We learn them in a visceral, bodily way. We hear conflict…