August 04, 2025

# 332 Keeping Families Close After H.S.

48 minutes

Are you worried that your relationship with your teen will fade once they leave home? Have you ever wondered what your role as a mom should look like once your child becomes an adult?

In this powerful episode of the Power Your Parenting: Moms of Teens podcast, Colleen O’Grady is joined by seasoned therapist and executive coach Catherine Hickem to explore the often-overlooked transition between parenting teens and maintaining connection with adult children. Drawing from both professional expertise and personal experience, Catherine shares hard-won wisdom about managing fear, adjusting expectations, and nurturing lifelong bonds. The conversation dives deep into the emotional complexities of this phase—highlighting why parents must do their own work, how fear can unintentionally drive adult children away, and what it truly means to support rather than control. With honest storytelling and practical insight, this episode is a must-listen for any mom navigating the “what now?” of the emptying nest.

Catherine Hickem is a licensed clinical social worker, psychotherapist, executive coach, and founder of the DASH Group. With over 40 years of experience helping families, leaders, and organizations navigate emotional complexity and transformational change, Catherine brings profound insight into relationships and leadership. A mother herself, Catherine is passionate about helping parents build strong, authentic connections with their adult children.

3 Key Takeaways:

It's Never Too Late to Be a Great Parent – Repair and growth are possible at any stage, but it takes humility, emotional regulation, and a willingness to do your own work.

Let Go of Fear-Based Parenting – Adult children need confidence, not control. When we lead with fear, we risk damaging trust and closeness.

Support Looks Different Now – Ask your adult children, “How can I support you right now?”—and be willing to listen without fixing. That simple question builds safety and connection.

Learn more at https://www.parentingadultchildrentoday.com/

Follow at https://www.tiktok.com/@parentingadultchildren2d

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By Colleen O'Grady LPC, LMFT, author, speaker & C-Suite Radio

4.7

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