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 wonder why it seems so hard. These experiences are very normal 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. As I learned the hard way, most couples therapists are not trained in stepfamilies, even though they see a lot of them in their offices, but I am passionate about providing research-based, effective support to stepfamilies in need. I’ve trained directly with worldwide stepfamily expert Dr. Patricia L. Papernow, so I know what it takes to help stepfamilies navigate the challenges that predictably arise. Understanding what’s happening is often half the battle. If you’re in a stepfamily that’s struggling, reach out to learn more and get the support you deserve.
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.
-
Coparenting
Parenting across households can be really hard. Stepfamilies often struggle with different norms in different places, unforeseen clashes over expectations, and frustration over having to work with someone you didn’t choose, whether it’s your partner’s ex or their new partner. There’s no one-size-fits-all answer, but there is a path forward.
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 quickly understand what stepfamily systems need, so they can avoid common missteps and handle challenges as a team.
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)
If you’re wanting to coordinate across households, reach out to discuss a custom package.