Children do best when they have a secure, loving relationship with both parents. When adult conflict disrupts that bond, it can have serious, lasting effects on a child.
Parental alienation is the term used to describe a situation in which one parent, knowingly or unknowingly, undermines the child’s relationship with the other parent. It’s most common in divorce or custody conflicts, but can occur in intact families too. Severely limiting contact, especially against court orders, making negative or false claims, and pressuring a child to reject the other parent are all indicators of parental alienation.
Reunification services play a critical role in repairing parent–child relationships after parental alienation. Key elements include:
- Providing a safe, supportive space for children to process the emotional impact of alienation without judgment.
- Rebuilding trust and attachment through therapeutic strategies that restore the parent–child bond at a pace that respects the child’s emotional needs.
- Strengthening communication by facilitating age‑appropriate conversations that address misunderstandings and improve conflict‑resolution skills.
- Supporting healthy co‑parenting by helping parents set clear boundaries, reduce conflict, and work together in the child’s best interests.
With time, guidance, and consistent support, families can recover from alienation and restore the trust and connection needed for a healthy relationship.
Dr. Lowenstein’s Family Reunification Specialist certification enhances our capacity to support and guide families through this healing process. Please reach out to learn how we can assist with your case or referral.
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Dr. David Lowenstein is a Columbus, Ohio-based psychologist with more than 35 years of experience. He conducts individual, family, and group therapy sessions in his German Village office and also via telehealth. Dr. Lowenstein is also available for expert forensic testimony, and for educational workshops and presentations. He is frequently called upon as an expert source for print, radio, and broadcast media. Contact Dr. Lowenstein at Lowenstein & Associates, 691 South Fifth Street, Columbus, Ohio, 43206, or call 614.443.6155 or 614.444.0432.
