EP312: Better Together: Navigating Co-Parenting with Lisa Erickson
I recently had the pleasure of sitting down with Lisa Erickson, a licensed clinical social worker and therapist from Empowering Parents in Kansas City (epkc.org), based in Missouri. Lisa has been helping families in crisis, especially those navigating co-parenting after divorce or separation, for over 15 years. Her insights were incredibly valuable, especially for those of us in the legal field and anyone dealing with family conflict.
Lisa shared how Empowering Parents was born out of a real need in the community, with referrals coming directly from family lawyers and judges. We delved into the challenges of co-parenting, particularly the difficulties with communication, blended family issues, and intergenerational dynamics. Lisa emphasized that, in the eyes of a child, the family is still together, just reconfigured.
One key takeaway was the importance of establishing clear guidelines and priorities for co-parenting, especially when dealing with differing opinions on medical decisions and extracurricular activities. We also discussed the complexities of using co-parenting apps, noting that while they can be helpful, they can also lead to a lack of meaningful dialogue. Lisa provided tips on how to use these apps effectively, emphasizing the need for clear, concise, and factual communication.
For those facing co-parenting challenges, Lisa stressed the importance of remembering that they are still a family and prioritizing the children’s well-being. If you’re interested in learning more or seeking help, visit Lisa’s organization at epkc.org.
Keyword Tags
Co-parenting, family therapy, conflict resolution, divorce, separation, children, parenting plans, communication, blended families, Lisa Erickson, Empowering Parents Kansas City, legal advice, decision-making, co-parenting apps, teenagers, family law, mediation, relationships
