EP96 Respecting Autonomy While Positively Influencing Your Child with Guest Lara Okoloko LCSW

Living While Loving Your Child Through Addiction

Licensed Clinical Social Worker Lara Okoloko and Heather discuss the delicate balance of influence and autonomy in parent-child relationships, particularly in the context of addiction. Lara empathizes with parents caught in the bind of being blamed for the negative aspects of enabling without receiving any credit for the positive influence they may have. She shares personal insights, reflecting on the power dynamics and responsibilities that come with being a helper, the importance of respect and autonomy in relationships, and the need for a balanced approach to supporting loved ones with substance use disorder. Her passion for reducing stigma and respecting self-determination in supporting individuals with substance use disorders is evident. With Lara's expertise and relatable experiences, this episode offers valuable insights and a fresh perspective on navigating the complexities of parent-child relationships and supporting loved ones through their recovery journey. In this episode, you will be able to: Uncover the impact of mixed messages when supporting a loved one with substance use disorder, and how to navigate them effectively. Embrace humility and respect in relationships to strengthen your role in your loved one's recovery journey. Explore the influence and autonomy in parent-child relationships, and how to strike a healthy balance. Discover the profound impact of helpers' words and actions on the recovery journey of their loved ones. Contact Lara: https://www.caresnw.com/ Resources From Heather Ross Coaching GROUP COACHING PROGRAM - Peace of Mind Group for moms https://heatherrosscoaching.com/peace-of-mind-community/ Get answers and support to help you and your child Sign up for a 45-minute $17 Road to Recovery call with me using the link below https://heatherrosscoachingcalendar.as.me/RoadtoRecovery⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Invitation to Change Learning/Support Group Use the link below to find out about the group Heather is hosting. https://heatherrosscoaching.com/invitation-to-change-group/ Guide about enabling - If you've ever worried about enabling, this guide is for you! https://heatherrosscoaching.com/perspective-about-enabling/ The key moments in this episode are: 00:00:02 - Introduction to Laura Okoloko 00:01:26 - Mixed Messages for Parents 00:02:52 - Lack of Positive Influence Recognition 00:05:43 - Influence vs. Control 00:16:36 - Balancing Autonomy and Support 00:18:57 - The Importance of Humility in Coaching 00:22:04 - Finding the Balance of Influence 00:23:36 - Using Influence Deliberately 00:26:33 - Understanding Power Dynamics 00:29:51 - Defining Success in Relationships 00:36:39 - The Power of Words in Helping Relationships 00:38:53 - Power Dynamics in Relationships 00:40:12 - Normalizing Control in Uncontrollable Situations 00:41:45 - Redesigning Support for Substance Use Disorders 00:43:16 - Closing Thoughts and Reflections