Step/Blended Families
Step/Blended families are increasingly common, but they’re also very complex and often need support. Maybe you’ve recently fallen in love, and one or both of you have children from a previous marriage, so you’re not sure how to move forward. Or maybe you’ve been together for a while, but the more you try to “blend,” the more you start to wonder if you’ll ever find happily ever after. These experiences are common because what works well in a first family doesn’t meet everyone’s needs the second time around.
I’m a stepmom myself, so I’ve lived the challenges you may be experiencing. I’ve also done the research, so I know what it takes to help blended families. I’m a big fan of Dr. Patricia L. Papernow’s approach to stepfamily counseling; she advocates for psychoeducation, interpersonal skills development, and inner work. Using these tools and the latest research, I help couples and stepparents navigate the unexpected, understand the complexities, and create their own version of happily ever after.
Common Challenges
-
Couple Concerns
When two families blend, partners often have different hopes, dreams, and expectations. For example, you might clash over parenting styles or cherished holiday traditions. This occurs in first families, too, but it’s more complicated when you’re part of a stepfamily. Therapy can help you navigate the complexities and find more connection.
Art by Nick Lowry. Located in Christchurch, New Zealand.
-
Stepparenting
It’s hard to understand what it’s like to be a stepparent unless you’ve experienced it. Under the best of circumstances, this role can be challenging, even painful, and it’s often isolating despite everyone’s best intentions. There are many ways to be a happy stepparent, but it helps to have support from someone who gets it while you find your way.
Artist Unknown. Located in San Francisco, California.
-
Ex-Partners
When your partner is actively coparenting with an ex, it can feel like your least favorite person is always there. Alternatively, you may be coparenting with your ex and wishing your new partner would be more understanding. Whether the ex is cordial or not, this dynamic can be hard for everyone. Therapy can help you make it easier.
Artist Unknown. Located in Montréal, Canada.
Artist Unknown. Located in Chicago, Illinois.
Stepfamily Intensives
When you’re trying to live a full life, it’s hard to find time for therapy, but blended families often need support, especially early on. That’s why I’m offering stepfamily intensives. They’re designed to help partners better understand stepfamily systems in a short amount of time, so they can figure out the best way forward for their unique family.
Stepfamily Intensives Include:
One 50-minute Intro Session
Two 50-minute Individual Sessions (one for each partner)
One 4-hour Learning and Strategy Session
One 50-minute Wrap-Up Session
Cost: $1,575 (50 percent due up front)