Parental alienation is one of the most misunderstood and emotionally charged dynamics in family systems—and when it’s oversimplified, it can cause real harm.

In this episode of Breaking Up With Toxicity, Maria Shkreli, LMHC, breaks down what parental alienation actually is, how it develops, why it happens, and what it looks like in real families—without blame, labels, or sound-bite psychology.

This conversation explores:

1. What parental alienation is—and what it is not
2. How children become caught in adult pain and loyalty conflicts
3. The emotional and psychological patterns that drive alienation
4. Different types of parents who may alienate a child (without diagnosing)
5. Real-world examples involving children, teens, and adult children
6. The long-term impact of alienation on identity, relationships, and trust
7. How healing begins for parents and adult children alike

This episode is not about choosing sides or dismissing real abuse.

It’s about understanding patterns, protecting children, and breaking cycles of emotional harm.

Disclaimer:

This podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended to replace therapy, diagnosis, or professional mental health treatment. Content discussed does not constitute clinical assessment or diagnosis of any individual. Listeners are encouraged to seek professional support for their own circumstances.

Estrangement isn’t just “cutting people off.”

It can be protection… and it can also be avoidance disguised as healing.

In this episode, Maria Shkreli, LMHC breaks down the truth behind estrangement — what it actually is, the different types, and why it’s far more complex than social media makes it seem.

We explore how trauma, family dynamics, and unresolved attachment wounds can lead to distance — but also how trend-driven messages, including the popular “Let Them” narrative popularized by Mel Robbins, can quietly push people toward isolation without reflection, context, or accountability.

In this episode, we talk about:

• the five main types of estrangement, with real-life examples

• when distance is necessary and protective vs. when it becomes harmful and avoidant

• how trauma and emotional regulation influence estrangement decisions

• how “cut them off” culture can damage vulnerable people

• why the “Let Them” theory can backfire when misunderstood or misapplied

• the questions to ask before making permanent relational decisions

This episode challenges viral narratives and invites deeper reflection — so your choices come from clarity, not impulsive pain.

Estrangement isn’t a trend.

It deserves wisdom, thoughtfulness, and compassion.

If this episode resonates, share it with someone who needs it — and don’t forget to follow the show.

What if the behavior you’re calling defiance isn’t defiance at all?

In this episode of Breaking Up With Toxicity, licensed mental health counselor Maria Shkreli breaks down one of the most misunderstood dynamics in parenting: the difference between true defiance and deep insecurity in kids and teens.

You’ll learn why so many children are punished for fear, shame, and overwhelm — and how mislabeling insecurity as defiance quietly damages trust, communication, and emotional safety. Maria explains what defiance actually is, what insecurity looks like at different developmental stages, how behavior changes from childhood into adolescence, and why teens often mask fear with anger, attitude, or withdrawal.

With real-life examples straight from clinical work, this episode challenges common parenting myths and offers a clearer lens for understanding difficult behavior without excusing it. If you’ve ever felt stuck in power struggles, confused by your child’s reactions, or unsure whether discipline is helping or hurting, this episode is for you.

Because not every child who pushes back is defiant — sometimes they’re just afraid and don’t know how to say it.

Awareness is where change begins.

View the pdf here: "They're Not Defiant" pdf.

Disclaimer:

This podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not a substitute for therapy, diagnosis, or individualized mental health treatment. Listening does not establish a therapist–client relationship. Examples discussed are illustrative and not diagnostic. If you have concerns about a child’s behavior or emotional wellbeing, consult a qualified mental health professional.