Navigating the complexities of family dynamics can sometimes feel like walking a tightrope—especially when relationships between parents and adult children become strained or even break down completely. Family estrangement is an increasingly common challenge that can leave everyone involved feeling isolated, misunderstood, and in deep pain. When communication falters and generational differences collide, how do we find a path toward empathy, healing, and growth?

In this episode, listeners are invited into a heartfelt exploration of adult child-parent estrangement, its underlying causes, and the impact it has on both individuals and entire families. The conversation offers practical insights on healing old wounds, understanding the spiritual and psychological dynamics at play, and tools for fostering compassion—even when distance or conflict seems insurmountable. With stories, expert reflections, and actionable guidance, this discussion aims to support anyone facing the difficult terrain of family disconnection, offering hope and concrete steps toward greater understanding and unity.

Dr. Rachel Glik is a licensed professional counselor with 30+ years as a couples, individual and family therapist in private practice. Since 2014, she has been a regular feature on the Fox 2 AM show in St. Louis as a relationship and mental health expert. Rachel appeared on NBC News Daily at the launch of her book, A Soulful Marriage: Healing Your Relationship with Responsibility, Growth, Priority, and Purpose. She is a writer for The Wall Street Journal, CNBC Make It, Psychology Today, and MindBodyGreen. Rachel teaches and gives seminars for organizations such as The Kabbalah Centre and Young Presidents Organization (YPO). She lives in St. Louis with her husband and large extended family.

Episode Highlights

03:40 Exploring why parent–child estrangement is becoming more common.

09:04 Considering how distance can sometimes support healing and growth.

12:35 The power of early repair before patterns set in.

15:03 Understanding the emotional complexity of parenting adult children.

16:31 Shifting into a new parental role as boundaries and autonomy evolve.

21:35 Recognizing the grief and self-validation needed as relationships change.

24:26 Reflecting on how to hold a compassionate space for an adult child's experience.

26:09 Learning to move beyond defensiveness and listen with openness.

29:38 Embracing generational differences with curiosity rather than fear.

32:56 Navigating how estrangement affects couples and their parenting alignment.

37:56 Prioritizing self-compassion in the midst of relational hardship.

40:43 Practicing accountability and authentic repair within the family and partnership.

Your Check List of Actions to Take

• Take a moment to ground yourself with a deep breath before engaging in challenging family conversations to increase presence and calm.

• When tension arises, reflect honestly on how your actions may contribute, and express accountability to foster trust and safety.

• Aim to respond with supportive, non-judgmental language, empowering your adult child to make their own decisions.

• Listen deeply to your child's experiences and feelings, holding space for their emotions without jumping into explanations or defense.

• Find the balance between support and over-giving, maintain your wellbeing, and be mindful of your energy.

• Ask permission before sharing concerns or advice, acknowledging you're entering your adult child's "lane."

• Recognize the pain and complexity of estrangement, and give yourself grace throughout the healing process.

• Reach out for therapy, coaching, or resources to receive guidance in navigating family estrangement and building new communication strategies.

Mentioned

A Soulful Marriage (*Amazon Affiliate link) (book)

It Didn't Start with You: How Inherited Family Trauma Shapes Who We Are and How to End the Cycle (*Amazon Affiliate link) (book)

Family Constellations (*Wikipedia link)

Passionate Marriage (*Amazon Affiliate link) (book)

Kabbalah (*Wikipedia link)

ERP 473: How to Experience More Embodied Pleasure Sexually – An Interview with Susan Taylor

12 Relationship Principles to Strengthen Your Love (free guide)

Connect with Dr. Rachel Glik

Websites: drrachelglik.com

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Instagram: instagram.com/drrachelglik

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Pinterest: pinterest.com/drrachelglik