Short courses and programs for families.
Hold Me Tight, Let Me Be Me.
A 12-Hour Online Course to Strengthen Relationships Between Adult Children and Their Parents “Hold Me, Let Me Be Me” is a course designed specifically for adult children and their parents. Originally developed by Drs. Nancy and Paul Aikin in the USA, it is based on the ideas of Dr. Sue Johnson, a pioneer and founder of Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT). The program has now been translated and adapted to Norwegian contexts. BackgroundThis course addresses a growing trend that deserves attention: an increasing number of adult children are distancing themselves from, or in some cases completely severing ties with, their parents. This phenomenon is not only individual but highlights a deeper societal shift. It reflects the fragmentation of the traditional foundations of identity and stability. Historically, family has been a cornerstone of emotional and social connection, but its role as a source of security and community is weakening. Course ObjectiveThe goal of this program is to strengthen understanding and relationships between generations. It offers adult children and their parents an opportunity to explore their own stories, reconcile differing perspectives, and potentially find a way back to each other. By doing so, it aims to bridge the distance that many experience, ultimately benefiting both individuals and society. Using a combination of theory, guided exercises, structured family discussions, and support from others in similar situations, participants are helped to approach their family relationships with greater freedom, security, and positivity. Testimonials from Participants A daughter: “For me, it was so comforting to be in a room with my mother, in a safe setting, supported by a therapist. A space where I could express myself authentically and listen fully. It was exactly what I needed—thank you!” Her mother: “My daughter and I have had a strained relationship for several years, but today, I received a kind message from her, and now I’m looking forward to going home to give her a proper hug. A fantastic course with skilled facilitators.” A mother estranged from her daughter: “The course was conducted in a safe and respectful manner, honoring how much each participant wanted to share. I felt seen and heard in my contributions—by the course leader, assistants, and other participants. They created a secure digital space, a sanctuary during an extremely difficult time for me and many others. They have given me renewed hope and strength to persist, work harder, and not give up.” |
Hold Me Tight, Let Me Go. A Program for families when teenagers begin to search for their independance. Over the past five years, many families in Norway have had the benefit and pleasure of experiencing the Hold Me Tight, Let Me Go Program for families with teenagers, developed by Dr's Nancy and Paul Aikin on the basis of Dr. Sue Johnson's Hold Me Tight Program. The Hold Me Tight, Let Me Go Program addresses the attachment fears and needs of families with teenagers in the process of separating themseves from their parents. This is a vulnerable phase for many families, and there has been little on offer in the way of support, compared to other age groups. The Program involves parents and other caregivers attending a course over 4 sessions with some days in between. Participants come back each time with a more nuanced and articulated understanding of interaction in the home, can share with each other and feel acknowledged. We have found that this strengthens the parents experience of their own influence and importance in their teenager’s life. In addition, we talk with each teenager about his or her concerns, feelings and needs, meet with the parents individually and invite the whole family to participate in a structured dialogue to strengthen their understanding of each other and secure the bonds between them. The Hold Me Tight, Let Me Go project in Norway has been supported by the Norwegian Directorate for Families and Children. As part of the project, we have produced a short film (13 min) about the Program and the way it has been developed in Norway. Follow this link. We had also produced a short "Teaser" (4 min) which gives a brief introduction to the Program. Follow this link. Contact me by email or throught the contact page if you would like more information. You may also download this article from EFT Community forum |
| Article published in EFT Community News, Summer 2019 |
