Suport groups for parents of difficult adult children
Parenting an adult child with serious mental illness, substance use disorder, and/or chronic unemployment is stressful, confusing, and isolating.
Mothers' groups
I have been facilitating support groups for moms/older women for the past three years, based on a multi-reach research project which became the book Difficult: Mothering challenging adult children through conflict and change for parents.
Fathers' groups
Imagine talking to a group of other fathers who are also confused, enraged, depressed and looking for answers about how to help their "difficult adult children."
I know that the experience of fathers and mothers are both similar and also very different. While men may find it harder to talk with others about their upset, being the parent of a vulnerable adult child is challenging and painful for men and women. Often these issues cause marital strain.
Individual consultation
The first step to joining a group is to schedule an individual consultation with Dr. Judith Smith, the facilitator of the group. In this 45 minute meeting we will discuss your individual situation and whether a group is a good fit for you at this time.
New groups starting January, 2026
New support groups will be offered for mothers on Mondays or Tuesdays
3:30 - 5:00pm (EST).
Groups begin Jan. 12th, 13th
A group for dads will meet on Thursdays at 7 pm (EST).
Groups begin Jan. 15th
The full fee for the 10 session group is $800.
If you have questions about joining a support group, email Dr. Smith at judithrsmith@difficultmothering.com.
Set up a one-one-one consultation with Dr Smith.
In this 45 minute meeting, you will be able to discuss your unique situation with your son or daughter and whether being in a group will fit your situation at this time.
Email Dr. Smith if you need a lower fee for the consultation.
Diane, 63 Years Old
"My son became ill at age 27."
Tanya, 47 Years Old
“My son's mental illness was so isolating for me.”
Listen to Diane and Tanya discuss the value they found from being in a support group
The Support Group has several purposes:
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To share and learn from others who are also struggling with the challenges of mothering a difficult adult child.
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To verbalize and process your mixed feelings regarding your relationship with your adult child.
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To set goals regarding the kinds of changes you want for yourself and in your relationship with your adult child.
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To learn about ways to balance your needs with that of your adult child’s.
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To express and process the chronic sorrow that many carry regarding the disappointments that mothering a challenging adult child can bring
The support group meets weekly.
The format is virtual.
The group will have a maximum of 10 members.
Please note: I am committed to the participation of everyone in this situation. The inability to pay the full fee will not exclude you. Please send me an email, judithrsmth@difficultmothering.com