My search for the middle path began years ago when my daughter was about 10 years old. She began to have extreme emotional reactions to what would be considered “normal” or everyday stressors. She would lash out at me in anger and started to behave in unpredictable and dangerous ways.

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I felt very isolated and alone. My daughter’s disturbing behavior wasn’t something I felt like I could share with family or friends for support . Still, I knew I wasn’t going to give up on my child.

 

My daughter was treated by numerous mental health professionals and was prescribed a litany of medications. She attended various psychotherapy programs, both in-patient/residential and intensive outpatient treatment centers. 

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After years of trial and error, what seemed to work best for her was a skilled therapist who used Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT). This therapist was able to reach my daughter in ways no one else could. However, when I looked for resources for myself and my husband, I was surprised and frustrated by the lack of information or support for parents.

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I decided to use my background in psychology and education to research my daughter’s condition, including DBT and other programs available. Through academic literature, online coursework, (and dozens of podcasts) I learned that my daughter’s illness had created a dysfunctional cycle in our family that we were all a part of now. I learned that DBT could help us stop this unhealthy cycle by de-escalating emotions so we could find a “middle path” in the relationship.

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When I started to use the DBT skills and strategies with my daughter, I noticed a small, but significant, shift in our relationship. There was a slight decrease in her emotional outbursts, and she seemed a little more open to talking with me. We were taking a step in the right direction…finally!

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Once I saw the improvement over time with my daughter, I knew I had to share my skills and knowledge with other parents in need. 

The Middle Path Community is based on extensive research and my personal experience with the mental health system. I hope to empower parents to make positive changes in their family environment. My vision is to spare other parents from the years of frustration and loneliness that I experienced.

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I want parents to know they are not alone, and there is hope for their family.