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

• City Council Confirms Appointment of Patti Jackson as Tacoma's Police Chief
• Nashville International Chopin Piano Competition Launches First Amateur Edition
• Council Votes on Pathways to Eviction Prevention for Spokane
• Market Value Enhancement From 2 Important New US Patents Issued for Strengthening Hair Enzyme Booster Technology to Caring Brands (NAS DAQ: CABR)
• HELM Audio™ Partners with PQCrypto to Future-Proof Children's Hearing and Safety Data Using Post-Quantum Cryptography

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

• Wala Blegay to Announce Run for Congress in Maryland's 5th District on Feb. 4
• Luxury Lake-View Home Launches in Kissimmee's Bellalago community, Offering Privacy, Space, and Florida Resort-Style Living
• Sleep Basil Launches Revamped Diamond Mattress Collection Page, Highlighting Performance, Craftsmanship, and Personalized Comfort
• Sleep Basil Curates a Clearer Brooklyn Bedding Experience for Performance-Minded Denver Sleepers
• Spokane City Council Members Introduce "Immigration Enforcement Free Zones"

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."