In this powerful episode of Living Your Best Life, Suzanne Wachtel, LCSW, addresses the painful and complex issue of parental alienation—when one parent intentionally or unintentionally damages a child’s relationship with the other parent or when adult children abandon their relationship with both parents for semmingly no reason at all .

Suzanne explores the emotional and psychological impact this dynamic has on both children and parents, shedding light on the deep wounds it creates and the long-term effects it can leave behind. With compassion and professional insight, she offers guidance on recognizing the signs, navigating the heartbreak, and finding paths toward healing and healthy co-parenting. This is a must-listen episode for anyone touched by divorce, custody struggles, or fractured family relationships.

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Reflection Questions:

• How has parental conflict or separation shaped your own understanding of family and emotional safety?

• What steps can you take to protect your child—or yourself—from being caught in the middle of adult conflicts?