When Life Feels Like Chaos: Finding Calm and Clarity in Your 20s

Host: Stephanie Buckley, AMFT (#147538) Parenting Strategist & Family Systems Coach Length: ~25 minutes

Graduation was supposed to feel freeing… so why does adulthood feel heavier than you expected? In this episode, Stephanie Buckley explores why the transition from dependence to independence can feel overwhelming especially for neurodivergent young adults navigating ADHD, anxiety, or depression.

Drawing from Bowen Family Systems Theory and Attachment Theory, Stephanie explains how family patterns, early relationships, and nervous-system sensitivity shape the way we relate, regulate, and build independence.

In This Episode, You'll Learn:

• How family systems influence your emotional blueprint and decision-making

• What "differentiation" really means and how to grow up without cutting off

• How attachment styles (anxious, avoidant, disorganized) impact independence

• Why ADHD amplifies emotional reactivity and rejection sensitivity (RSD)

• Practical strategies to create structure, boundaries, and calm confidence

• Reflection prompts to help you understand your patterns and build self-trust

Key Takeaway:

You don't have to choose between belonging and being yourself. Real peace comes from learning to stay connected without staying stuck balancing autonomy, attachment, and authenticity.

Resources Mentioned:

• Bowen Family Systems Theory

• Attachment Theory and Adult Relationships

• Rejection Sensitivity Dysphoria (RSD)

• The Path to Peace Therapy Podcast archive

Connect with Stephanie:

Website: www.ThePathToPeaceTherapy.com Instagram: @ThePathToPeaceTherapy Virtual therapy available throughout California

Disclaimer

This episode is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional mental-health evaluation, diagnosis, or treatment.