How can a specialised psychotherapist help a targeted parent?
It is deeply regrettable that parents who are alienated endure this kind of suffering in solitude. Beyond the tragic loss of a child, the experience of being an alienated parent is profoundly distressing and beyond the comprehension of most non-specialists; as a result, the alienated parent is left alone and misunderstood.
It is in the best interest of the alienated parent to ensure that the therapist they select is knowledgeable and certified in parental alienation and capable of handling the parent’s daily intense grief. Although the therapist is unable to resolve the issue directly, they can assist the client in navigating the emotional challenges that the client is encountering.
“Being a targeted parent is a shame-inducing, frustrating, painful, and demoralizing process.”
Baker & Sauber, 2013
Sadly, numerous targeted parents endure the ordeal in solitude, convinced that no one can possibly sympathise with their predicament. Consequently, although support groups exist for a variety of traumatic experiences (illness, addictions, etc.), parental alienation can be even more traumatic due to the absence of resources to cope with the pain and suffering endured. Regrettably, those in close proximity to the parent who had not personally experiencedparental alienation are more prone to misinterpreting or underestimating the magnitude of the issue. The targeted parent does not require statements such as “have patience, observe how things develop” or “remain optimistic, the children will soon come back hastily.”
As a consequence of these deficiencies in assistance, online support communities comprised of concerned parents have emerged. The matter becomes complicated when parental alienation in support groups is restricted to a particular gender or when targeted parents of mild, moderate, and severe cases engage in discussions where all participants require to feel heard and understood. Being in such an intimate circumstance could potentially isolate the individual to the point where they are unable to provide support to others. This could result in other targeted parents experiencing feelings of isolation, which undermines the very purpose of the support groups—to offer assistance. Therefore, it is critical that you, as a targeted parent, seek the assistance of a qualified, specialised psychotherapist. Additionally, a qualified, specialised psychotherapist can assist the individual in maximising the potential of the support group.
We, at Iftaħ Qalbek, are pleased to offer this specialised service amidst this challenging period. If you require further assistance, please feel at liberty to reach out to us via WhatsApp or phone at 77771237 or via email at support@iftahqalbek.mt.
Reference:
Baker, A. J., & Sauber, S. R. (2013). Working with alienated children and families: A clinical guidebook. Routledge.