Parent Enmeshed

Often the words parent enmeshment, enmeshment or emotional incest/covert incest are used to describe an unhealthy connection between a parent and child. Enmeshment is an umbrella term referring to a relationship dynamic where there is high emotional dependency and boundaries are blurred or non-existent.

Emotional incest is a kind of enmeshment where a parent treats their child as a surrogate husband or wife, asking them to meet emotional needs an adult partner should provide.  There is no overt sexual touch between the parent and child but the child feels trapped in the relationship.

Without professional intervention this unhealthy dynamic carries on with the child into adulthood.

The effects of childhood emotional incest are:

  • Anger or shame
  • Guilt over leaving the parent
  • Persistent feelings of insecurity or inadequacy
  • Difficulty setting healthy boundaries
  • Difficulties in engaging in appropriate behaviour with their own children
  • Difficulty having their own romantic relationships
  • Sexual dysfunction
  • Depression
  • Anxiety
  • Eating disorders

Healing from the effects of emotional incest is absolutely possible. I have the experience and education to help guide you through your past trauma, unravel its effects on your life and current relationships, and help you develop ways to break free from problematic thoughts or behaviours. With the right support, you can successfully rediscover yourself, learn how to set appropriate boundaries, and move forward in healthy, fulfilling relationships.