Working with Adult Children of Alcoholics (ACoA)

I specialise in working with ACoA - I am an ACoA myself, and I am working on building a community and removing shame for other ACoA (check out my Instagram page :)).

Being an adult child of an alcoholic can feel like or mean:

Feeling guilty about everything and anything
You struggle with confrontation or authority figures
Overthinking a lot of different scenarios and catastrophising
Suppressing memories or emotions but knowing you should talk about them
Being incredibly confused about loving someone that's hurt you so much
Being estranged
Feeling like estrangement would be the best thing for you but you are worried, scared or it is not an option
Struggle with self-worth because you have been abandoned (literally or figuratively) by your parent
Anyone that lies to you is the worst thing they could ever do
Trying so hard not to be like that parent that you've become anxious and a perfectionist
You had to look after yourself a lot so you have become hyper-independent and struggle to say you need others or let others in

Through our work together, we will explore these common ACoA traits and develop coping strategies that honor your unique experience while building a foundation for healing and self-compassion.

What to Expect

Introductory Call

We begin with a free 15-minute phone call to discuss your needs and see if my approach feels like the right fit for you. This is optional, not obligatory.

Initial Session

During our first full session, we dive deeper into your current challenges and how you feel day to day. I can further explain my approach and how I like to work, and we can see if that suits you. We may talk about your history if necessary, and I will seek to gain a clearer understanding of what you want from therapy.

Ongoing Support

We move into weekly or fortnightly sessions, building a relationship together and working on how best to help you in the present and the future for long-term growth. I like to offer practical help and advice where appropriate.