Family Therapy: Narcissistic Dynamics & Custody

When a narcissistic or emotionally immature parent (or ex-partner) pits siblings, co-parents, or grandparents against one another, the whole family suffers. With eight years in child-welfare work and frontline experience at Renew Family Services—a nonprofit devoted to reuniting estranged children with alienated parents—I understand the legal, emotional, and developmental minefields of high-conflict custody and access. My family sessions create a structured, judgment-free space where each voice is heard, toxic cycles are named, and healthier patterns take root.

Evidence-Based Modalities

• Bowen & Structural Family Systems – untangle triangulation, rebuild clear roles

• Internal Family Systems (IFS) – help each member heal protective parts and exiled emotions

• Emotionally Focused Family Therapy (EFFT) – turn blame into secure attachment

• Attachment & Trauma-Informed CBT – regulate nervous systems and improve communication

Common Issues We Address

• Parental alienation & “back-door” custody interference

• Sibling rivalry fueled by scapegoat / golden-child roles

• Co-parenting with a narcissistic ex or in-laws

• Blended-family adjustments & step-parent boundaries

• Teen anxiety, school refusal, and acting-out linked to family conflict

How Sessions Work

1. 90-minute family intake to map relationships, legal factors, and goals.

2. Ongoing 50-minute sessions, typically weekly, in my Toronto office or via secure Zoom across Ontario.

3. Skill-building homework: red-flag recognition, boundary scripts, and calm-down rituals for family meetings.