How To Find A Therapist That Works With Adult Child And Grandparent Issues

If you’re dealing with issues with a grandparent or you are a grandparent who is trying to reconcile with your adult child and/or grandchildren, you may want to pursue therapy. It’s important to find a therapist who has experience in this area. Here are some things to look for and ask about:

• Training and experience with multigenerational family dynamics. This may include the therapist being licensed as a licensed marriage and family therapist or having specific training in that area. Look at the therapist’s website for specific mentions of working with families, grandparents, and training in family issues.
  
• Experience with estrangement, no-contact, and low-contact dynamics. You may want to ask the therapist how they handle these specific issues and ensure they do not have a personal bias or leaning. Some therapists may only work with cases where the goal is to reconcile; if this is not the goal, you'll want to ensure they can assist with that. It’s important that the therapist recognizes there are many options when dealing with these issues, and it’s up to you to decide which option is best for you. They should demonstrate a willingness to allow you to explore these options and not push you toward one specific option or resolution.
  
• Experience with grandparents and grandparent-related relationship issues. You may want to ask the therapist how the feel about “grandparent’s rights to their grandchildren.” How they respond will tell you a lot about their orientation.
  
• Experience with adult-child and parent dynamics. You’ll want to make sure this is directly mentioned on the therapist’s profile or ask them about their experience with this.
  
• Experience with grandchild and grandparent dynamics. You’ll want to make sure this is directly mentioned on the therapist’s profile or ask them about their experience with this.
  
• Knowledge of how culture, religion, and age impact these relationships. You’ll want to ask the therapist if they have experience with your specific demographics, especially if they are important to your story or issue with your parent or the grandparent.
  
• Experience with emotionally immature parents and/or narcissistic adults. Many parents and grandparents who refuse to take accountability struggle with one or both of these issues. It is helpful if your therapist understands these traits and how they can manifest in these relationships.