162: When Reconnection Feels Impossible—Family Estrangement Expert Dr. Joshua Coleman on Grief, Boundaries, and Hope for Healing.

The Best of You

What happens when repair in your family isn’t possible—at least not yet?

In this powerful follow-up to last week’s conversation on family pain, psychologist and author Dr. Joshua Coleman sits with me as we explore the heartbreak and complexity of family estrangement—from both sides of the story.

With deep compassion and personal insight, Dr. Coleman shares what he’s learned through decades of research—and from his own journey as a parent who experienced estrangement from his adult daughter. Whether you're the one who stepped away from a parent or you're a parent who’s been cut off by a child, this conversation offers a rare, balanced look at a path to healing.

Dr. Coleman shares:

• Why estrangement is rising—and what’s really behind it
• When a temporary break might be helpful
• What to do if your parent won’t take responsibility—or if your child won’t re-engage
• How humility (not humiliation) opens the door to healing
• Practical guidance for both adult children and estranged parents
  

If you’ve ever wrestled with how to honor a parent who hurt you—or how to rebuild with a child who’s walked away—this episode is full of wisdom, hope, and next steps.

🖥 Learn more about Dr. Coleman’s work here.

📚 Grab a copy of his book Rules of Estrangement here.

If you liked this episode, you’ll also love:

• ⁠Episode 161⁠ — Finding Yourself without Losing Your Family: Healing From Dysfunctional Family Patterns with Jerry Wise

• Episode 127 — Healing Childhood Wounds: The Enmeshed Family & 5 Toxic Patterns that Affect Your Ability to Thrive in Adult Relationships

• Episode 85⁠ — The Goal of a Healthy Family & 6 Roles We Take On In Dysfunction

📖 Find a full transcript and list of resources from this episode here.

💬 Got a question? Call 307-429-2525 and leave a message for a future episode.

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Connect further with Dr. Alison Cook:

IG: https://www.instagram.com/dralisoncook/

www.dralisoncook.com

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