This practical workshop is for adults navigating distance or disconnection with children, parents or siblings after separation. Many people find that time alone does not repair relationships, and that attempts to reconnect can sometimes lead to more hurt, confusion or frustration.The session explores why this happens and what tends to help or hinder the process.
Participants are introduced to a simple framework: Stabilise, Rebuild, Reconnect, that focuses first on emotional steadiness, perspective and personal growth. Reflective, grounded and non-therapeutic, the workshop offers a calmer and more constructive path forward for those seeking clarity and reconnection.
Face to face
COURSE RESOURCES
Website Links:
- CDC, HeaRT Program Facilitator Training Manual (healthy relationship skills incl. communication/conflict resolution): vetoviolence.cdc.gov/sites/default/files/HeaRT-Program-Facilitator-Training-Manual-508.pdf.
- NIMH, Coping With Traumatic Events: nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/coping-with-traumatic-events.
Research papers:
- Lucy Blake, Parents and Children Who Are Estranged in Adulthood: A Review and Discussion of the Literature (2017);
- Gilligan et al., Estrangement Between Mothers and Adult Children (2015), PMC.
Books:
- John Bowlby, A Secure Base
- Bessel van der Kolk, The Body Keeps the Score
- Brené Brown, Daring Greatly
COURSE OUTLINE
The workshop is delivered interactively and practically. It includes:
- A clear explanation of why family disconnection often continues after separation
- Discussion of common experiences and patterns people go through
- A simple way to understand how emotional reactions influence outcomes
- Introduction to a structured but flexible framework for moving forward
- Opportunities for light interaction and questions throughout
The aim is not to overwhelm people, but to give them clarity and a better starting point.
Participants will leave with
- A deeper understanding of why disconnection often persists over time
- Clear insight into how emotional state influences reconnection outcomes
- Awareness of common patterns that unintentionally create further distance
- A simple, structured approach to reconnect more thoughtfully and effectively
- A way to regain emotional steadiness
- A new sense of identity and direction
- A calmer internal starting point for moving forward more thoughtfully and effectively.
