1st Edition
Navigating Family Estrangement Helping Adults Understand and Manage the Challenges of Family Estrangement
PART 1: THE NEVER-ENDING STORY 1. CONTEXT AND COMPLEXITY 2. SIGNS AND LABELS 3. THE IMPACT TRIAD 4. REFLECTIONS ON RECONCILIATIONS PART 2: THE SUPPORT DILEMMA 5. THERAPEUTIC ROADBLOCKS 6. EXPLORING WHAT WORKS PART 3: NAVIGATING ESTRANGEMENT 7. THE MODEL 8. THE TOOLBOX PART 4: CASE STUDIES 9. LIVING ON THE EDGE (PARENTAL/SIBLING ESTRANGEMENT) 10. THE PEOPLE VS. ESTRANGEMENT (ADULT SON ESTRANGEMENT) 11. THE LONG GOODBYE (PARENTAL ESTRANGEMENT) 12. PERPETUALLY SORRY (SIBLING ESTRANGEMENT) 13. GRIEF AND GRIEVANCES (ADULT DAUGHTER ESTRANGEMENT) 14. CONCLUSION: WIDENING THE ESTRANGEMENT LENS
Biography
Karl Melvin is a psychotherapist and Family Estrangement expert. As well as running a busy practice, he delivers training globally to both estranged adults and professionals who are seeking a comprehensive understanding of complex family issues. Originally from Dublin, he lives in the West of Ireland with his wife and two sons and can be contacted via his website for therapy, workshops and seminars, and media requests: www.karlmelvin.com.
'Estrangement is so common and yet so stigmatised, so to read a work on this subject is refreshing. Karl has managed to provide such a valuable insight for professionals and interested parties, with an intense and detailed study of the phenomenon. His own first-hand knowledge shines through and brings authenticity to a difficult and distressing societal reality. This book is a tool for anybody who wants to better understand estrangement and find ways of counselling and healing.'
Jo Spain, bestselling author and screenwriter
'In sharing his expertise on this important and often hidden topic, Karl Melvin's compassion shines through each page. This book will be helpful to so many people. Karl Melvin explores the complex topic of family estrangement with kindness and compassion. Whether you have personal experience, or support people in a professional capacity, or perhaps both – this book is a must read.'
Dr. Lucy Blake, Family Estrangement expert and author of No Family is Perfect
'An important and refreshing addition to the emerging estrangement literature, Karl Melvin writes with authority and heart.'
Dr Kylie Agllias, University of Newcastle and author of Family Estrangement: A Matter of Perspective
'Karl Melvin's book is essential reading for anyone navigating family estrangement. As an expert working in the field, Melvin's compassion and attention to detail provides a comprehensive and thoughtful guide to help them through this difficult experience. This is a must-read.'
Stella O'Malley, Psychotherapist and author of What Your Teen is Trying to Tell You
