Co-Parent Dilemmas

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Therapist Carol poses a question about a client’s narcissistic co-parent, who apparently wants to buy his 14-year-old’s love. Diane & Rick explore the complications of weaning from the parent/child bond in the teen years, as well as what to say to the teen, and maybe the other parent about this so-called promise.

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CO-PARENT RESOURCES:

• Subscribe to Diane’s DAILY DEVOTIONAL FOR FRUSTRATED CO-PARENTS and get a one-month FREE trial 
• If you want to learn more about Diane & Rick’s D.R.A.G.O.N. method for finding co-parenting peace, purchase their book,  I AM NON-IMPOSSIBLE  
• THE CO-PARENT TOOLBOX , is Diane Dierks’ guide for co-parents 
• CLICK HERE for FREE communication resources for co-parents  
• For valuable co-parent workshop videos and products, visit our Non-Impossible STORE!
• To get a special discount on therapy visit BetterHelp

FOR DIVORCE PROFESSIONALS:

• IMPACT training to learn how to...

Have a quick question to be explored on the show? Send us a text message! Include your email address if you would like a personal response. Click HERE

Gary wonders what custody plan can work for his two young children, given that their mother plans to move in with someone she had an affair with, who is a foster parent to four children. Diane & Rick discuss how to manage living in the same house during an angry divorce process and what to do when you have no faith the other parent will step up and be responsible.

Support the show

>>>>CONTACT US  >>>>RATE THE SHOW  >>>>VISIT OUR WEBSITE

CO-PARENT RESOURCES:

• Subscribe to Diane’s DAILY DEVOTIONAL FOR FRUSTRATED CO-PARENTS and get a one-month FREE trial 
• If you want to learn more about Diane & Rick’s D.R.A.G.O.N. method for finding co-parenting peace, purchase their book,  I AM NON-IMPOSSIBLE  
• THE CO-PARENT TOOLBOX , is Diane Dierks’ guide for co-parents 
• CLICK HERE for FREE communication resources for co-parents  
• For valuable co-parent workshop videos and products, visit our Non-Impossible STORE!
• To get a special discount on therapy visit BetterHelp

FOR DIVORCE PROFESSIONALS:

• IMPACT training to learn how to...

Have a quick question to be explored on the show? Send us a text message! Include your email address if you would like a personal response. Click HERE

A listener wonders if an infant should have overnight visits with the father while she is breastfeeding. Diane and Rick explore this common concern and discuss what is important at this tender age of development.

For a deeper look into what the research says about parenting plans and very young children, follow this LINK.

Support the show

>>>>CONTACT US  >>>>RATE THE SHOW  >>>>VISIT OUR WEBSITE

CO-PARENT RESOURCES:

• Subscribe to Diane’s DAILY DEVOTIONAL FOR FRUSTRATED CO-PARENTS and get a one-month FREE trial 
• If you want to learn more about Diane & Rick’s D.R.A.G.O.N. method for finding co-parenting peace, purchase their book,  I AM NON-IMPOSSIBLE  
• THE CO-PARENT TOOLBOX , is Diane Dierks’ guide for co-parents 
• CLICK HERE for FREE communication resources for co-parents  
• For valuable co-parent workshop videos and products, visit our Non-Impossible STORE!
• To get a special discount on therapy visit BetterHelp

FOR DIVORCE PROFESSIONALS:

• IMPACT training to learn how to...

Have a quick question to be explored on the show? Send us a text message! Include your email address if you would like a personal response. Click HERE

Diane & Rick address a difficult listener question about child abuse. Jennifer’s 5-year-old son doesn’t want to see  his dad because dad is abusing him. Mom is worried about her son and wonders if she should withhold custody or make him go.

Want to talk about this episode with Diane and other parents? Be part of the conversation on the NON-Impossibles Facebook group

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Coming soon: Friday, March 17

12:00-1:30

The Freedom of Plan B: What you need to resolve when your co-parent makes it impossible to negotiate

DON’T FORGET!
The print-version of theI Am Non-Impossible journal is NOW AVAILABLE on Amazon for a limited-time price of only $9.95 (Kindle version is $2.99). This is a great holiday gift for those in your life who are seeking co-parenting peace. ORDER YOURS NOW!

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Have a co-parent dilemma? Email [email protected] or access us on our  NON-Impossibles Facebook group.

Our podcast exists because of the support of listeners like you.  Here are ways you can offer your continued support:

• SOBERLINK is an ongoing sponsor of Co-Parent Dilemmas. If you are concerned about substance abuse issues with your co-parent, Soberlink can help. Follow this LINK to get a $50 discount on Soberlink products. 
• To get a special discount on therapy through BetterHelp,  visit www.BetterHelp.com/Dilemma
• Think you might want to start a podcast? Buzzsprout is the best host for all your podcasting needs

Support the show by being a 2023 Patreon member to get special perks and bonus episodes!

Support the show

>>>>CONTACT US  >>>>RATE THE SHOW  >>>>VISIT OUR WEBSITE

CO-PARENT RESOURCES:

• Subscribe to Diane’s DAILY DEVOTIONAL FOR FRUSTRATED CO-PARENTS and get a one-month FREE trial 
• If you want to learn more about Diane & Rick’s D.R.A.G.O.N. method for finding co-parenting peace, purchase their book,  I AM NON-IMPOSSIBLE  
• THE CO-PARENT TOOLBOX , is Diane Dierks’ guide for co-parents 
• CLICK HERE for FREE communication resources for co-parents  
• For valuable co-parent workshop videos and products, visit our Non-Impossible STORE!
• To get a special discount on therapy visit BetterHelp

FOR DIVORCE PROFESSIONALS:

• IMPACT training to learn how to...

Have a quick question to be explored on the show? Send us a text message! Include your email address if you would like a personal response. Click HERE

A listener surprisingly asks if his ex might be right about him. Maybe he IS an impossible co-parent after all! Diane and Rick address this unusual question in a Jeff Foxworthy style - You might be an impossible co-parent if…

Support the show

>>>>CONTACT US  >>>>RATE THE SHOW  >>>>VISIT OUR WEBSITE

CO-PARENT RESOURCES:

• Subscribe to Diane’s DAILY DEVOTIONAL FOR FRUSTRATED CO-PARENTS and get a one-month FREE trial 
• If you want to learn more about Diane & Rick’s D.R.A.G.O.N. method for finding co-parenting peace, purchase their book,  I AM NON-IMPOSSIBLE  
• THE CO-PARENT TOOLBOX , is Diane Dierks’ guide for co-parents 
• CLICK HERE for FREE communication resources for co-parents  
• For valuable co-parent workshop videos and products, visit our Non-Impossible STORE!
• To get a special discount on therapy visit BetterHelp

FOR DIVORCE PROFESSIONALS:

• IMPACT training to learn how to...

Have a quick question to be explored on the show? Send us a text message! Include your email address if you would like a personal response. Click HERE

In this replay of a 2022 episode (S1:E52), Diane & Rick talk about the personal value of forgiveness and the destruction of hanging on to bitterness. Listener Carolina wonders how it is possible to co-parent with someone who is such a bad actor. As usual, the hosts talk about what matters to the kids.

Support the show

>>>>CONTACT US  >>>>RATE THE SHOW  >>>>VISIT OUR WEBSITE

CO-PARENT RESOURCES:

• Subscribe to Diane’s DAILY DEVOTIONAL FOR FRUSTRATED CO-PARENTS and get a one-month FREE trial 
• If you want to learn more about Diane & Rick’s D.R.A.G.O.N. method for finding co-parenting peace, purchase their book,  I AM NON-IMPOSSIBLE  
• THE CO-PARENT TOOLBOX , is Diane Dierks’ guide for co-parents 
• CLICK HERE for FREE communication resources for co-parents  
• For valuable co-parent workshop videos and products, visit our Non-Impossible STORE!
• To get a special discount on therapy visit BetterHelp

FOR DIVORCE PROFESSIONALS:

• IMPACT training to learn how to...

Have a quick question to be explored on the show? Send us a text message! Include your email address if you would like a personal response. Click HERE

In this replay of a 2021 episode (S1:E16), Diane & Rick address a listener dilemma about sticking to the parenting plan or being flexible with weekend time. Australian Blogger Bella Duncan (www.akidwithtwohomes.com), a child of divorce, weighs in with how kids feel about living in a high-conflict parenting situation and gives advice about seeing things from the child’s point of view.

Support the show

>>>>CONTACT US  >>>>RATE THE SHOW  >>>>VISIT OUR WEBSITE

CO-PARENT RESOURCES:

• Subscribe to Diane’s DAILY DEVOTIONAL FOR FRUSTRATED CO-PARENTS and get a one-month FREE trial 
• If you want to learn more about Diane & Rick’s D.R.A.G.O.N. method for finding co-parenting peace, purchase their book,  I AM NON-IMPOSSIBLE  
• THE CO-PARENT TOOLBOX , is Diane Dierks’ guide for co-parents 
• CLICK HERE for FREE communication resources for co-parents  
• For valuable co-parent workshop videos and products, visit our Non-Impossible STORE!
• To get a special discount on therapy visit BetterHelp

FOR DIVORCE PROFESSIONALS:

• IMPACT training to learn how to...

Have a quick question to be explored on the show? Send us a text message! Include your email address if you would like a personal response. Click HERE

In this replay of episode S1:E65, Diane and Rick discuss an email from Thomas in Ontario, who shares his dilemma about attending his toddler’s doctors appointments, while having to endure his co-parent’s drama or failure to inform him. Diane and Rick use the process outlined in their new journal (DRAGON) to unpack this complicated conflict and teach Thomas how to think differently about it. 

Support the show

>>>>CONTACT US  >>>>RATE THE SHOW  >>>>VISIT OUR WEBSITE

CO-PARENT RESOURCES:

• Subscribe to Diane’s DAILY DEVOTIONAL FOR FRUSTRATED CO-PARENTS and get a one-month FREE trial 
• If you want to learn more about Diane & Rick’s D.R.A.G.O.N. method for finding co-parenting peace, purchase their book,  I AM NON-IMPOSSIBLE  
• THE CO-PARENT TOOLBOX , is Diane Dierks’ guide for co-parents 
• CLICK HERE for FREE communication resources for co-parents  
• For valuable co-parent workshop videos and products, visit our Non-Impossible STORE!
• To get a special discount on therapy visit BetterHelp

FOR DIVORCE PROFESSIONALS:

• IMPACT training to learn how to...

Have a quick question to be explored on the show? Send us a text message! Include your email address if you would like a personal response. Click HERE

In this replay from season 1, Diane & Rick get real about dealing with a narcissistic co-parent. Phrases like crazy-making, gas-lighting. twisting words, and avoiding responsibility, are just a few of the many complaints made by the co-parent who is frustrated with a narcissistic co-parent. Diane and Rick address Paul from Phoenix who wants help with his. Although changing someone with personality flaws of any type is nearly impossible, using protective boundaries in communication can minimize conflict and add years to your life!

Here is a list of suggested responses to a narcissitic co-parent, including some of the ones we discussed on this episode:

1.      “Your attempt to portray me in a negative light is noted.”

2.      “I look forward to getting to a place in our co-parenting relationship where we can negotiate things. For the time being, I intend to follow the order 

3.      “This has nothing to do with the matter at hand,” (repeat question they're trying to distract you from). 

4.      “I know that is your perception, but it doesn’t make it reality.”

5.      “I do not feel these misrepresentations warrant a response and I see no purpose to this email other than to increase conflict. As such, I am noting my objection and your attempts to portray me in a negative light.“

6.      “I do not agree with your portrayal of the event in question.”

7.      “Your recollection of events differs greatly from mine.”

8.      “Your attempt to elicit a negative response from me has been noted.” 

9.      “I will keep you abreast of anything that affects our child as it comes up. Thanks for your concern.” 

10.   “Thanks for letting me know your thoughts, I’ll consider them.”

11.   “I’m sorry you see it that way. Our different perceptions is one of the reasons we divorced.”

12.   “I will continue to comply with the court ordered parenting plan as I believe consistency is in the best interest of our child."

13.   In response to threats, “If that is what you feel you must do, I understand.”

14.   “We have reached an impasse of opinion.”

15.   “I am not willing to do that, but thanks for asking.”

16.   “You may access that information at your convenience by signing up for the school’s online portal.” 

17.   “Interesting.”

18.   “If I don’t hear back from you by May 1st, I will assume we are in agreement on this matter.” 

19.   “Please provide a copy of the ________________ that you reference.”

20.   “Your allegations are untrue, but I do not wish to engage in an argument.”

Support the show

>>>>CONTACT US  >>>>RATE THE SHOW  >>>>VISIT OUR WEBSITE

CO-PARENT RESOURCES:

• Subscribe to Diane’s DAILY DEVOTIONAL FOR FRUSTRATED CO-PARENTS and get a one-month FREE trial 
• If you want to learn more about Diane & Rick’s D.R.A.G.O.N. method for finding co-parenting peace, purchase their book,  I AM NON-IMPOSSIBLE  
• THE CO-PARENT TOOLBOX , is Diane Dierks’ guide for co-parents 
• CLICK HERE for FREE communication resources for co-parents  
• For valuable co-parent workshop videos and products, visit our Non-Impossible STORE!
• To get a special discount on therapy visit BetterHelp

FOR DIVORCE PROFESSIONALS:

• IMPACT training to learn how to...

Have a quick question to be explored on the show? Send us a text message! Include your email address if you would like a personal response. Click HERE

This emotional episode describes Diane’s experience attending Sarah’s final hearing. Get ready to hear how we plan to hold courts accountable in these complex cases with another podcast and non-profit. It’s time to bring a powerful voice to a subject that has been pushed underground for too long.

Support the show

>>>>CONTACT US  >>>>RATE THE SHOW  >>>>VISIT OUR WEBSITE

CO-PARENT RESOURCES:

• Subscribe to Diane’s DAILY DEVOTIONAL FOR FRUSTRATED CO-PARENTS and get a one-month FREE trial 
• If you want to learn more about Diane & Rick’s D.R.A.G.O.N. method for finding co-parenting peace, purchase their book,  I AM NON-IMPOSSIBLE  
• THE CO-PARENT TOOLBOX , is Diane Dierks’ guide for co-parents 
• CLICK HERE for FREE communication resources for co-parents  
• For valuable co-parent workshop videos and products, visit our Non-Impossible STORE!
• To get a special discount on therapy visit BetterHelp

FOR DIVORCE PROFESSIONALS:

• IMPACT training to learn how to...