
Author, Psychotherapist & Founder of Parenting Adult Children Today

Hearts Entwined Podcast
February 5, 2026
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About this episode
Lyn welcomes Catherine Hickem, an author and psychotherapist, to explore the complex dynamics of the parent and adult child relationship.
Drawing from her extensive experience in psychotherapy and coaching, Catherine shares insights into the challenges faced by parents of adult children, particularly in the context of estrangement and communication breakdowns.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
The relationship between parents and adult children can be complex, often influenced by past experiences and communication styles
Open and honest communication is crucial in maintaining healthy relationships. When disagreements arise, it's vital to address them rather than allowing them to fester
Mistakes and failures are valuable learning opportunities. Encouraging children to embrace their mistakes promotes resilience and independence, allowing them to grow without fear of failure.
Parents should focus on their own well-being and personal growth, recognising that their value is not solely dependent on their children's actions or opinions
BEST MOMENTS
"Over 50% of adult children do not share their lives with their parents... We now have a 27% estrangement rate in the United States."
"When we don't forgive, we're actually hostage to the very people we're not forgiving."
"It's important that we realise our value isn't dependent upon whether our children agree or disagree with us."
"Your success as a parent isn't based upon how your children turn out."
ABOUT THE GUEST - Catherine Hickem – Author & PsychotherapistCatherine speaks to unspoken expectations and boundary setting in family life, translating that into practical guidance for parents navigating the transition with adult children.
She’s an Author, Psychotherapist & Founder of Parenting Adult Children Today, and brings decades of clinical practice plus lived experience as a parent navigating the same terrain. Her work focuses on helping families move from control to curiosity, and to become a steady presence in their adult children’s lives.TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@parentingadultchildren2d
ABOUT THE HOST
Lyn Smith – (The Queen of HEARTS) – Love, Dating & Relationship Expert
Lyn’s personal story is a very inspirational and harrowing one of how she went from having unhealthy and unfulfilling relationships with men (on the back of several serious traumatic sexual assaults in her teens) to now feeling safe, fulfilled, alive, full of passion and having inner peace.
She has a proven track record as a Love Solutions - Relationship Expert/ Trainer/ Inspirational Speaker and Best-Selling Author based upon her own vast personal research, experiential learning and training with the world’s leading industry experts. Lyn makes a difference by helping you make a difference; she has a vision of contributing back on a global scale.
Contact Method lyn@hearts-entwined.com
This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/

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