On Going Healing: Mother Daughter Estrangement

On Going Healing: Mother Daughter Estrangement

In this compelling episode of Mental Health News Radio, host Kristen Sunanta-Walker welcomes Shari and Jann Simmons, a mother-daughter duo who have embarked on a profound healing journey amidst estrangement. The episode delves into the intricacies of their relationship, marked by the trauma Jann faced as an orphaned child subjected to brutality. Both Shari and Jann explore how these experiences have shaped their lives and informed their work in mental health advocacy.

Shari Simmons, a therapist with over three decades of experience, shares her insights into trauma recovery and the therapeutic process. Her professional journey intersects with her personal one, as she navigates her relationship with Jann, her mother, who has endured a lifetime of trauma. Together, they have written a book titled 'Which Way?', which chronicles their parallel stories and the long-term impacts of trauma.

Jann Simmons provides a heartfelt account of her experiences, emphasizing the difficulty of revisiting painful memories during the book-writing process. Despite initial reluctance, she found writing to be a cathartic outlet, allowing her to articulate her journey and foster healing. The conversation highlights how sharing their stories publicly has not only brought them closer but also empowered others facing similar challenges.

The episode underscores the importance of open communication and empathy in healing familial bonds, particularly when both parties have experienced trauma. Shari and Jann’s story is a testament to resilience and the power of storytelling in fostering understanding and reconciliation. Their website, traumaspeakers.com, offers resources for those interested in learning more about their work, including seminars, training sessions, and their TED Talk.

The book 'Which Way?' is available on Amazon and is recommended for anyone looking to explore complex family dynamics and healing from trauma. Kristen closes the episode by reminding listeners of the therapeutic role that animals, specifically dogs, can play in mental health, advocating for the presence of the original therapy dog, Miles, in the Mental Health News Radio Network.

Overall, this episode is a poignant exploration of a mother and daughter’s journey through estrangement, trauma, and eventual healing, offering valuable insights and hope to listeners navigating similar paths.