Family Estrangement on the Rise: Therapist Offers Support, Perspective, and Community for Those Affected
Washingtoner/10288435

SAN FRANCISCO - Washingtoner -- Family estrangement, once considered rare or taboo, is now a growing reality for millions of Americans. Recent studies show that 27% of U.S. adults are estranged from at least one family member, and a 2024 Harris Poll reveals that 35% have no contact with someone in their immediate family — such as a parent, sibling, or adult child.

"Estrangement refers to the emotional or physical distancing between individuals who were once close, most commonly within families. It results from a breakdown in communication, trust, or connection, often due to unresolved conflict, betrayal, abuse, or mismatched values and boundaries. It may be temporary or permanent and can be initiated by either party," says San Francisco psychotherapist Michael Travis Halyard, LPCC, LMFT.

Halyard notes a growing correlation between the rise in estrangement and the increasing prevalence of narcissistic traits in the general population. "Individuals with narcissistic personality disorder are statistically more likely to initiate estrangements," he explains. "They often devalue loved ones to the point where they see no inherent worth in the relationship. Viewing themselves as superior to others, they can be strikingly cruel and callous. Their lack of empathy plays a central role in their capacity to cut people off without remorse."

More on Washingtoner

• Leimert Park Announces Weeklong Kwanzaa Festival & Kwanzaa Parade Celebrating Black History, Culture, and Community
• City of Tacoma Observes Christmas Day December 25 and New Year's Day January 1
• City of Tacoma Launches Pilot Program to Fast-Track 'Missing Middle' Housing
• Renowned Alternative Medicine Specialist Dr. Sebi and His African Bio Mineral Balance Therapy Are the Focus of New Book
• Psychiatric Drug Damage Ignored for Decades; CCHR Demands Federal Action

Halyard specializes in working with individuals navigating the emotional fallout of estrangement, especially in the context of narcissism and emotional abuse. "In nearly all the estrangement cases I see, narcissism plays a central role," he says. "Sometimes it's the narcissist who discards others. Other times, it's the survivor choosing to distance themselves from the narcissist to preserve their mental and emotional health."

"Narcissists also frequently scapegoat family members, blaming them for relationship problems while avoiding accountability." Halyard adds that not all estrangements are narcissistically driven. "Some families split over political, religious, or value-based differences," Halyard notes.

To support people coping with estrangement, Halyard offers psychotherapy for clients in California and facilitates The Estrangement Project USA, a private Facebook support group where people can safely share experiences, ask questions, and find solidarity. "Community is critical," he emphasizes. "You are not alone. There are others walking the same path — together, healing becomes more possible."

More on Washingtoner

• Why Millions Are Losing Sexual Sensation, And Why It's Not Age, Hormones, or Desire
• Justin Jeansonne An Emerging Country Singer-Songwriter Music Fans Have Been Waiting For…a True Maverick
• Russellville Huntington Learning Center Expands Access to Literacy Support; Approved Provider Under Arkansas Department of Education
• Tacoma Police Seeking Vehicle of Interest in Fatal Collision Involving Washington State Patrol Trooper on SR-509
• UK Financial Ltd Launches U.S. Operations Following Delaware Approval

Join the community: facebook.com/groups/estrangementproject

Halyard's website — www.sanfrancisco-psychotherapy.com — also features a comprehensive Estrangement Resource Section — sanfrancisco-psychotherapy.com/estrangement — covering topics such as parental alienation, ghosting, boundary-setting, and navigating the grief of disconnection.

"I want people to understand that healing doesn't require the other person's participation," Halyard says. "It requires truth, clarity, and compassionate support. You can grieve and grow at the same time."