The Path To Peace Therapy Podcast

Welcome back to The Path to Peace Therapy Podcast. I'm Stephanie Buckley—an AMFT Solution-Focused Therapist who specializes in ADHD, OCD, anxiety, depression, and bipolar disorder. I'm also a mom to a now-thriving 22-year-old neurodivergent son, and I've been married for over three decades. Around here, we keep it honest, grounded, and always focused on what works. Today's episode is all about something I get asked all the time: "How do I set boundaries with my child, partner, or parent who has ADHD—without making them feel ashamed or broken?" Let's Stay Connected! If today's episode resonated with you, I'd love to support you further. You can book a therapy session, explore over 65 helpful blog posts, or dive deeper into my resources by visiting:  To Book An Appointment The Path To Peace Therapy Website  https://www.thepathtopeacetherapy.com/book-online The Path to Peace Therpy Blog over 65 posts  https://www.thepathtopeacetherapy.com/blog Good Therapy https://www.goodtherapy.org/therapists/profile/stephanie-buckley--20250310 Whether you're in the South Bay-Hermosa Beach, Manhattan Beach, Redondo Beach, Torrance, Palos Verdes, El Segundo or if you are anywhere in California, I offer both in-person and telehealth sessions to help you or your family find the calm, clarity, and connection you deserve. And remember, peace begins with small, intentional steps. I'm here when you're ready.  Visit The Path To Peace Therapy Website https://www.thepathtopeacetherapy.com The Path to Peace Therapy Blog https://www.thepathtopeacetherapy.com/blog The Path to Peace Weekly Newsletter (March) https://thepathtopeacetherapy.com/so/1ePLywVzO?languageTag=en The Path to Peace Weekly Podcast (Tues & Thurs) https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-path-to-peace-therapy-podcast/id1800952648 This episode is for educational purposes and to provide support. They're not a substitute for professional mental health evaluation, diagnosis, or treatment." The more we learn to recognize the signs behind the behaviors, the more compassion and support we can offer—to our kids, our partners, and ourselves. Thank you for spending this time with me. If this episode was helpful, I'd love it if you shared it with a fellow parent, caregiver, or educator who might need it too. You can also subscribe to stay up to date on future episodes and check out additional tools and resources at The Path To PeaceTherapy.com. Follow me on Instagram @The Path to Peace Therapy And as always—take a deep breath, give yourself some grace, and remember: peace is possible, and you don't have to do this alone.

Welcome to The Path to Peace Therapy Podcast — a place where we dive deep into the heart of parenting, mental wellness, and building a thriving family life. I'm your host, Stephanie Buckley an AMFT Solution Focued Marriage and Family Therapist, who specializes in ADHD, Anxiety and Depression. I'm also a mom to a now thriving 22 year neurodivergent son. here to guide you with insight, compassion, and real-life strategies that work. In this episode of Resilience Unlocked, we dive deep into the importance of building resilience in children. Raising resilient kids not only helps them face life's challenges but also empowers them to grow through adversity. Whether it's learning how to overcome failure, managing emotions, or facing new challenges head-on, this episode is packed with actionable tips and insights to help you foster resilience in your child. Tune in as we explore: What resilience truly means for kids. How to create an environment that nurtures growth and emotional strength. Practical strategies for teaching problem-solving and persistence. The role of failure in building resilience. The power of positive reinforcement and encouragement. Key Takeaways: Resilience Starts Early: Children learn how to cope with challenges through the examples set by their parents and caregivers. Mindset Matters: A growth mindset is a crucial component in teaching kids to see obstacles as opportunities for growth. Failure Isn't the End: Teaching kids that failure is a stepping stone, not a setback, helps them build grit and confidence. The Power of Support: Encouragement and emotional support can significantly boost a child's resilience, helping them feel more confident in their abilities. Practical Tips for Parents: Simple everyday practices you can integrate into your routine to raise resilient, emotionally strong children. So grab a cup of coffee, take a deep breath, and let's talk about love — the kind that brings out the best in all of us.     Connect with me:   Instagram    https://www.instagram.com/thepathtopeacetherapy?igsh=NTc4MTIwNjQ2YQ%3D%3D&utm_source=qr   Visit The Path To Peace Therapy Website     https://www.thepathtopeacetherapy.com   The Path to Peace Therapy Blog   https://www.thepathtopeacetherapy.com/blog   The Path to Peace Weekly Newsletter (March)   https://thepathtopeacetherapy.com/so/1ePLywVzO?languageTag=en   The Path to Peace Weekly Podcast (Tues & Thurs)   https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-path-to-peace-therapy-podcast/id1800952648   If you found this episode helpful, share it with a friend, parent, or educator who might benefit. Don't forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode!    Have a question or topic suggestion? Reach out—we'd love to hear from you!       Until  next time! 

Have you ever tried to reason with a child mid-meltdown, only to have the situation explode? In this episode, Stephanie Buckley breaks down the neuroscience of dysregulation. We move beyond "behavior management" and into nervous system intervention. You'll learn why your best parenting strategies fail when a child's "thinking brain" goes offline and discover the specific sensory tools like bubbles, straws, and pinwheels that act as biological backdoors to bring a child back to calm. Key Takeaways The Neurological Coup: During a meltdown, the Prefrontal Cortex (the CEO of the brain) shuts down, and the Amygdala (the threat detector) takes total control. Why Redirection Fails: Redirection is a high-level cognitive skill. A child in a "survival state" cannot process choices or logic; they can only process safety. Co-Regulation is the Tether: Your child's nervous system is constantly "scanning" yours. Before you can regulate your child, you must regulate your own breath and body. The "Backdoor" Tools: Learn how to use rhythmic interventions to manually reset the Vagus nerve and lower the heart rate. The 4 Biological Intervention Tools The Invisible Candle: Uses "pursed-lip breathing" to activate the parasympathetic nervous system. Bubbles: Encourages "smooth pursuit" visual tracking, which is neurologically incompatible with a fight-or-flight state. The Pinwheel: Provides immediate visual feedback, giving the child a sense of agency over their physical state. The Straw: Creates mechanical back-pressure in the lungs to physically force a slower respiratory rate. The HALT Lens: What's Under the Behavior? Once the storm has passed, use this checklist to identify what "stacked" the stress in the first place: H — Hungry: Low blood sugar = low frustration tolerance. A — Angry: Is this "leftover" emotion from earlier in the day? L — Lonely: Is the child's attachment system seeking proximity? T — Tired: Fatigue collapses executive functioning.   Related Episode: From Meltdowns to Mastery: Scaffolding Executive Function Chores, Chores, Chores https://open.spotify.com/episode/2ymyJ5GxrK8jlrp7asUfQg?si=6tNTgXndTmWOYe2EDIJCqQ Is Your Anxiety Baseline Too High? https://open.spotify.com/episode/1uCuMjzYVWlwnMg8bR5aOE?si=ywJm2U7FQjK33WerQjEZ8w If You Want To Change The World Start Off By Making Your Bed https://open.spotify.com/episode/0VO24G5oQ3ReIOcEuukr5e?si=kLU5-liQS6Cc59KqClh_nw Balloon breathing  https://open.spotify.com/episode/29cs7H0moeviVlUSZYcQdL?si=KPX7AAGyRgepKCPsH1-7mA Monday Meltdowns https://open.spotify.com/episode/2gyYGpG5FwwUVXqY4rzeuq?si=RMkq-Bg4SOmTzp7X2pb30g Help. Is Your Child Dysreguted  https://open.spotify.com/episode/4P0s6ceSNnKQtLweORms74?si=aDxydlmsQcmZOt8s87qb9Q The HALT's Method  https://open.spotify.com/episode/3UJjgxbyN4RRARDWnLJbIf?si=ewHCM3blS_GufJDm1_BP6w Visit the Website: ThePathToPeaceTherapy.com Follow on Instagram: @ThePathToPeaceTherapy "You cannot teach a drowning person how to swim. You must first pull them to the shore. Structure prevents the storm; regulation survives it."

Are you tired of repeating yourself every morning? Does it feel like Groundhog Day same questions, same chaos, same last-minute scramble? In this episode of The Path to Peace Therapy Podcast, Parenting Strategist and Family Systems Coach Stephanie Buckley breaks down why everyday tasks like chores trigger meltdowns and why that frustration is neurological, not behavioral. Chores aren't about being helpful or compliant. They are one of the most powerful, real-life tools we have to build executive functioning, reduce anxiety, and help children move from overwhelm to confidence. Using relatable analogies assembling a bookcase with no instructions, cooking a meal without a recipe, searching for your child's team on a chaotic sports field  Stephanie explains how missing structure overloads the brain and why scaffolding is the key to calm. This episode will completely reframe how you think about chores, routines, and independence.  In This Episode, You'll Learn:  • Why frustration is often the gap between not knowing and knowing how • How executive functioning develops in the prefrontal cortex • Why "they've seen me do it" isn't the same as being taught • How missing structure triggers anxiety and shutdown • Why chores are executive-function training in disguise  • What scaffolding really is and why it's not enabling • How structure keeps the nervous system regulated • Why repeated success builds confidence and independence  • How to move your home from daily meltdowns to mastery Chores are not about responsibility. They are about building the brain systems that make responsibility possible. When we add structure, clarity, and repetition, we don't make things easierwe make learning and regulation possible. Structure is not restrictive. It's protective. Related Episodes:  If this episode resonated, be sure to listen to the companion episode:  Chores, Chores, Chores https://open.spotify.com/episode/2ymyJ5GxrK8jlrp7asUfQg?si=6tNTgXndTmWOYe2EDIJCqQ Resources & Support Learn more parenting tools, executive-function strategies, and family systems support at: ThePathToPeaceTherapy.com Follow along on Instagram: @ThePathToPeaceTherapy ❤️ Share This Episode If this conversation felt familiar, please share this episode with a fellow parent, caregiver, or educator who might be stuck in daily frustration. Sometimes the shift from chaos to calm starts with understanding the brain behind the behavior. And as always take a deep breath, give yourself some grace, and remember: peace is possible, and you don't have to do this alone.

In this episode of The Path To Peace Therapy Podcast, Parenting Strategist and Family Systems Coach Stephanie Buckley breaks down what is actually happening in the ADHD brain during development and what happens when substances like nicotine, vaping, THC, or other drugs are introduced while the brain is still under construction. This episode explains why ADHD brains often develop two to three years behind in executive functioning, how substances can push that development even further back, and why behaviors that look like laziness, defiance, or apathy are often signs of neurological interference not character flaws. You'll also learn why exercise and aerobic movement are some of the most powerful, evidence-based tools for supporting ADHD brain development, emotional regulation, and long-term maturity. This neuroscience-based conversation designed to help parents respond with clarity, structure, and confidence instead of fear. What You'll Learn in This Episode • A clear breakdown of the major areas of the brain and what each one does • Why the prefrontal cortex is the last part of the brain to mature • How executive functioning develops and why it takes longer in ADHD • What "two to three years behind" actually means neurologically • How dopamine, norepinephrine, serotonin, cortisol, endorphins, and BDNF work in   the ADHD brain • Why nicotine and vaping feel helpful at first but worsen ADHD symptoms over time • How THC impacts memory, motivation, emotional regulation, and brain development • Why substance use during adolescence can stall or divert executive function growth • How substance use can widen the developmental gap in ADHD brains • Why this often looks like personality change or regression • The difference between muting discomfort and building regulation • What aerobic exercise actually does to the brain and body • Why exercise creates a different kind of "happy" than substances • How movement supports dopamine, focus, emotional regulation, and brain growth • Why exercise is not optional enrichment for ADHD it is neurological support • What actually helps ADHD brains mature safely and sustainably Key Takeaways for Parents • ADHD is not a motivation problem it is a neurodevelopmental and neurochemical one • Executive function develops through practice, not time alone • Substances interrupt the practice required for brain maturation • Exercise supports the exact brain systems ADHD brains struggle with • Calm, predictable structure builds regulation faster than consequences • When the brain is supported correctly, development can catch up Who This Episode Is For • Parents of children, teens, or young adults with ADHD • Caregivers navigating vaping, nicotine, or marijuana use • Educators and coaches working with neurodivergent students • Adults with ADHD who want to understand their own brain better • Anyone trying to parent with less fear and more clarity Resources & Support Learn more and access additional parenting tools at ThePathToPeaceTherapy.com Follow Stephanie on Instagram @ThePathToPeaceTherapy If you are in California, Stephanie offers virtual sessions for families outside the Hermosa Beach and South Bay area. You can book directly through The Path To Peace Therapy. Email Stephanieb@ThePathToPeaceTherapy.com Disclaimer This episode is for educational purposes and to provide support. It is not a substitute for professional mental health evaluation, diagnosis, or treatment.

The Path To Peace Therapy Podcast with Stephanie Buckley In today's episode, Stephanie Buckley an AMFT Soltution Focued Parenting Strategist, Family Systems Coach, and sports-psychology-informed ADHD specialist  breaks down one of the most misunderstood patterns in family systems: parentification, the moment a child steps into emotional or practical roles meant for adults. Parentification is common in families navigating ADHD, anxiety, OCD, depression, or inconsistent parenting. It often develops quietly, without intention, but it fundamentally reshapes childhood, identity, and sibling relationships. Stephanie explains how children become the "responsible one," the emotional anchor, or the family stabilizer  and how these roles follow them into adulthood as overfunctioning, perfectionism, guilt, and hyper-responsibility. You'll learn how parentification emerges, why it is intensified in ADHD households, and how to identify the signs early. Stephanie also explores the emotional cost on non-ADHD siblings, who often become quiet caretakers, high achievers, and self-suppressors, as well as the long-term effect on sibling dynamics, where roles begin to replace genuine relationship. If your child is struggling with emotional overload, takes on too much, or seems "too mature too soon," this episode will give you the clarity and tools to break the cycle and restore balance. What You'll Learn in This Episode • What parentification is and why it forms in overwhelmed family systems. • The difference between instrumental parentification (task-based responsibility) and emotional parentification (carrying adult emotions). • How ADHD in parents or children amplifies the likelihood of parentification. • Why parentified children often become people-pleasers, overfunctioners, or emotional fixers in adulthood. • Signs your child may already be carrying emotional labor they shouldn't be. • How parentification impacts non-ADHD siblings, causing them to become the "easy child," the compensator, or the emotional suppressor. • How sibling dynamics shift into roles of stabilizer and identified patient and how this affects connection long-term. • Practical ways to restore balance so children can return to their rightful developmental roles. • What parents can say and do to release the emotional load from their children and reclaim leadership in the home. This episode is essential for: • Parents raising children with ADHD, OCD, anxiety, or emotional dysregulation • Families experiencing chronic conflict, overwhelm, or uneven roles • Parents noticing one child becoming "the helper," "the calm one," or "the mature one" • Adults who grew up feeling responsible for everyone else • Therapists, coaches, or educators wanting clearer language for family systems patterns • Young adults exploring their own family dynamics and self-understanding Key Takeaway Parentification doesn't happen because parents are bad  it happens because parents are overwhelmed. But with awareness, clarity, and intentional leadership, families can reorganize in ways that allow every child to reclaim childhood, restore identity, and build healthier relationships moving forward. Resources + Connect For more tools, resources, and parent coaching support, visit: ThePathToPeaceTherapy.com Connect with Stephanie on Instagram: @ThePathToPeaceTherapy Share this episode with a parent, therapist, or young adult who needs clarity on this powerful family-systems dynamic. If this episode helped you understand your family system more deeply, please rate and review the podcast. Your support helps other families find the tools they need. And remember small shifts lead to big change.  

The Path To Peace Therapy Podcast Hosted by Stephanie Buckley, AMFT Solution Focused Parenting Strategist & Family Systems Coachr In this episode, Stephanie explores one of the most influential and least understood  dynamics inside families navigating ADHD: the overfunctioning/underfunctioning cycle. When one member of the household steps in too much and another steps back too far, the entire family system reorganizes around patterns of survival rather than development. Drawing on clinical expertise, family-systems theory, and decades of lived experience raising a thriving neurodivergent son, Stephanie breaks down how these roles form, why they intensify in ADHD households, and what it takes to rebalance them. This conversation will empower parents, partners, and young adults to understand the unspoken forces shaping their relationships and how to shift into healthier patterns that allow everyone to grow. This episode now includes an important segment on how this dynamic impacts siblings without ADHD, offering clarity parents often don't realize they need. What You'll Learn in This Episode • Why overfunctioning and underfunctioning develop in overwhelmed families • How ADHD amplifies both roles inside the household • The emotional and psychological cost to children who underfunction • The invisible burnout carried by the parent who overfunctions • Real examples of how the dynamic appears during routines, homework, dysregulation, and marriage • The long-term developmental risks for young adults raised in these patterns • The essential steps to begin rebalancing the system • How siblings without ADHD adapt  by disappearing, overachieving, or becoming resentful • Why rebalancing the system helps every child in the home Key Concepts Discussed • Overfunctioning • Underfunctioning • Family-systems regulation • Executive functioning challenges • Shame-driven avoidance • Emotional resilience • Parent–child role reversal • Sibling role formation in ADHD households Powerful Takeaways "Overfunctioning and underfunctioning aren't personality flaws. They are survival roles that develop when stress exceeds capacity." "Young adults don't become avoidant or anxious by accident  they become that way because of the roles they practiced inside the family system." "When the overfunctioning parent begins to step back, and the underfunctioning child begins to step forward, the entire family shifts from survival into development." "Siblings without ADHD learn who they are in relation to the sibling getting the most attention  not in relation to their own internal truth." Who This Episode Supports • Parents raising children with ADHD, OCD, or anxiety • Couples struggling with uneven parenting roles • Parents who feel burnt out, resentful, or overwhelmed • Families noticing one child stepping back while the other steps up • Adults who grew up in these patterns and want to break them • Anyone experiencing imbalance, nagging, resentment, emotional overload, or guilt in parenting Resources & Next Steps For parent coaching, family-systems work, and ADHD-informed strategies, visit: ThePathToPeaceTherapy.com Follow Stephanie on Instagram: @ThePathToPeaceTherapy  therapy for California residents and parent coaching for families nationwide. Rate, Review & Share If this episode helped you understand your family system in a new way, take a moment to rate the show, leave a review, or share it with a parent, teacher, or therapist who needs it. Your support helps this podcast reach more families looking for clarity and peace.

  The Path To Peace Therapy Podcast Hosted by Stephanie Buckley, Parenting Strategist & Family Systems Coach   In today's episode, Stephanie unpacks one of the most misunderstood dynamics in overwhelmed households: triangulation. When two adults struggle to address conflict directly, they may unintentionally pull a child into the emotional middle a pattern that becomes especially damaging in families navigating ADHD, OCD, anxiety, and executive functioning challenges. Drawing from both clinical expertise and over three decades of marriage  as well as her lived experience raising a-thriving 23-year-old neurodivergent son  Stephanie breaks down why triangulation forms, how it wires itself into the family system, and what we can do to stop placing emotional burdens on children that their developing brains were never meant to hold. This episode is essential listening for any parent who has ever found their child mediating arguments, delivering messages, smoothing tension, or absorbing distress they cannot explain.   What You'll Learn in This Episode • Why triangulation forms quickly in ADHD households • How children become messengers, mediators, or emotional buffers • The hidden psychological impact of pulling kids into adult conflict • What symptom displacement is — and why misbehavior is often a nervous-system response, not defiance • Why the "identified patient" is never the true root of the problem • How regulated vs. dysregulated ADHD presentations trigger different parental reactions • The Pursuer + Protector dynamic and how it silently intensifies triangulation • Three corrective steps to pull children out of the emotional middle • How to create direct, stable, parent-to-parent communication

In this deeply personal reintroduction episode, Stephanie Buckley, AMFT, ADHD Parenting Strategist & Family Systems Coach, reflects on how The Path to Peace Therapy Podcast grew from one microphone and a mission into a global movement spanning 47 U.S. states and 34 +countries across 6 continents. Based in Hermosa Beach, California, Stephanie sees clients throughout California via telehealth and in person across Hermosa Beach and the South Bay, helping families navigate ADHD, OCD, anxiety, depression, and bipolar disorder. After raising her now thriving 23-year-old neurodivergent son, Stephanie shares what she wished she had known years ago  and how her personal and professional journey has shaped over 102 episodes and six seasons of empowering, solution-focused parenting. This episode is a warm invitation for both new and longtime listeners to reconnect with the heart of the show  a place where neuroscience, family systems, and practical tools come together to help parents move from chaos to calm, and from reactivity to connection. The story behind The Path to Peace Therapy Podcast  from one parent's search for answers to a global community of calm and connection. How Stephanie's personal experience raising a neurodivergent son shaped her therapeutic approach. Why understanding behavior through the lens of regulation, not defiance, changes everything. What's next for the podcast: upcoming mini-series, family tools, and new resources. A reminder that peace isn't passive  it's something we practice. The origin story: bridging lived experience and clinical expertise ADHD, executive functioning, and the science of self-regulation Family Systems Theory and how stress moves through relationships The evolution of The Path to Peace brand and its global impact New series on Learned Helplessness, Divorce Dynamics, Executive Function, and Independence Stephanie's "why"  what she wishes she had known when her son was younger Now heard across: North America, Europe, Asia, Africa, Australia and South America 34 countries and counting! Listeners in Canada, the U.K., Spain, Italy, Singapore, Japan, Kenya, South Africa, and more Connecting over 47 states in the U.S. If you're new here  start with the two-minute trailer,  "Welcome to The Path to Peace Therapy Podcast"  your quick guide to calm, connection, and clarity. If you've been here since Season 1  thank you for walking this path with me. Follow and subscribe on: ThePathToPeaceTherapy.com Connect with Stephanie:  Website: ThePathToPeaceTherapy.com Email: stephanieb@thepathtopeacetherapy.com  Instagram: @ThePathToPeaceTherapy  Hermosa Beach, California ADHD parenting, family systems therapy, emotional regulation, executive function, parenting podcast, Hermosa Beach therapist, parenting strategist, Stephanie Buckley, The Path to Peace Therapy Podcast, parenting through divorce, raising independent young adults, learned helplessness ADHD, solution-focused parenting, global mental health podcast

In this calming, neuroscience-based guided episode, AMFT/ADHD Parenting Strategist & Family Systems Coach Stephanie Buckleyteaches listeners how to use EFT Tapping (Emotional Freedom Techniques) to regulate stress, anxiety, and overwhelm especially for teens and young adults with ADHD preparing to leave for college. Stephanie explains why the ADHD brain can shift from calm to chaos in seconds, how the amygdala hijacks the prefrontal cortex under stress, and why traditional "talking through it" often fails when the nervous system is flooded. Through a step-by-step, real-time tapping session, you'll learn how to bring the body back to balance, calm the mind, and create an internal sense of safety and control  one gentle tap at a time. Whether you're a parent helping your teen prepare for independence or a college student learning to self-regulate, this episode will help you reset your nervous system and strengthen emotional resilience for the transitions ahead. What You'll Learn The neuroscience behind why ADHD brains become easily overwhelmed during transitions How EFT Tapping calms the limbic system and reactivates the prefrontal cortex Step-by-step guidance for a full tapping sequence How to use tapping before tests, social events, or stressful transitions Why self-regulation builds self-efficacy  the belief that "I can handle this" How this tool helped Stephanie's own son manage stress before college Key Takeaways Emotional regulation must come before executive function; the brain can't plan when it feels unsafe. Tapping offers a bottom-up approach calming the body first so the mind can follow. ADHD success in college depends less on motivation and more on nervous system mastery. Each round of tapping strengthens vagal tone and teaches the body to return to calm faster. Favorite Quotes "The ADHD brain doesn't need more motivation  it needs more safety." "Tapping helps the body remember calm, even when the mind forgets it." "Our kids don't need us to remove their stress; they need us to teach them how to regulate it." Recommended For Parents of ADHD teens and college students Young adults preparing for independence Therapists and educators supporting neurodivergent learners Anyone seeking a quick, evidence-based stress-reduction technique Resources Mentioned EFT (Emotional Freedom Techniques) research and resources "Learned Helplessness & ADHD: When Overwhelm Becomes a Way of Life" — previous episode Visit ThePathToPeaceTherapy.com for additional parent resources and tools   If this episode helped you find even a moment of calm, share it with a parent, student, or educator who might need it too. Follow Stephanie on Instagram @ThePathToPeaceTherapy for more emotional regulation tools and ADHD resources. Subscribe to The Path to Peace Therapy Podcast wherever you listen and remember: Peace is possible, and you don't have to do this alone.

Welcome to The Path to Peace Therapy Podcast, where we explore practical tools for emotional regulation and nervous system health. I'm Stephanie Buckley, AMFT Solution-Focused ADHD Therapist, Parenting Strategist, and Family Systems Coach. In this episode, we talk about what happens when anxiety hijacks your brain and how to interrupt that process using somatic grounding, breathwork, and simple reframes that bring you back to calm. You'll learn: How the nervous system triggers anxiety responses Why your body needs to feel safe before your mind can think clearly Quick tools to regulate in real time at work, school, or home    I guide you through a  short 5-4-3-2-1 grounding routine designed to calm your body and mind first thing in the morning. Whether you wake up scrolling, overthinking, or already feeling anxious, this five minute reset helps you reconnect with your senses and start your day grounded and steady. You'll learn: How sensory awareness can instantly regulate your nervous system A step-by-step way to use sight, sound, touch, smell, and taste for grounding How small somatic practices shift your mindset and emotional state over time Listen anytime you need to slow down, breathe, and come back to yourself.    Balloon Breaths: How to Calm Your Nervous System in 60 Seconds Next I guide you through one my favorite somatic tools Balloon Breaths a technique I've taught to children and adults alike to help calm the body and regulate emotions in moments of stress. You'll learn how to use your diaphragm to send signals of safety to your brain, helping you shift from anxious to centered in just a few breaths. You'll learn: The difference between chest breathing and diaphragmatic breathing How to visualize and practice Balloon Breaths anywhere, anytime Why this simple tool can reset your entire nervous systeme This episode will help you notice anxiety sooner, respond with compassion, and regain control before overwhelm sets in.   Find more resources and guided practices at ThePathToPeaceTherapy.com and follow @ThePathToPeaceTherapy for daily calm and connection.

When Life Feels Like Chaos: Finding Calm and Clarity in Your 20s Host: Stephanie Buckley, AMFT (#147538)  Parenting Strategist & Family Systems Coach Length: ~25 minutes Graduation was supposed to feel freeing… so why does adulthood feel heavier than you expected? In this episode, Stephanie Buckley explores why the transition from dependence to independence can feel overwhelming  especially for neurodivergent young adults navigating ADHD, anxiety, or depression. Drawing from Bowen Family Systems Theory and Attachment Theory, Stephanie explains how family patterns, early relationships, and nervous-system sensitivity shape the way we relate, regulate, and build independence. In This Episode, You'll Learn: How family systems influence your emotional blueprint and decision-making What "differentiation" really means  and how to grow up without cutting off How attachment styles (anxious, avoidant, disorganized) impact independence Why ADHD amplifies emotional reactivity and rejection sensitivity (RSD) Practical strategies to create structure, boundaries, and calm confidence Reflection prompts to help you understand your patterns and build self-trust Key Takeaway: You don't have to choose between belonging and being yourself. Real peace comes from learning to stay connected without staying stuck  balancing autonomy, attachment, and authenticity. Resources Mentioned: Bowen Family Systems Theory Attachment Theory and Adult Relationships Rejection Sensitivity Dysphoria (RSD) The Path to Peace Therapy Podcast archive Connect with Stephanie: Website: www.ThePathToPeaceTherapy.com  Instagram: @ThePathToPeaceTherapy  Virtual therapy available throughout California Disclaimer This episode is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional mental-health evaluation, diagnosis, or treatment.

When you first hear the words "Your child has ADHD," it can feel like the ground shifts beneath you. Relief, confusion, guilt, and overwhelm all rush in at once. You're not alone in that moment and this episode is here to help you take a breath, find your footing, and move forward with clarity and confidence. In this episode, Parenting Strategist & Family Systems Coach Stephanie Buckley walks parents through the first steps after an ADHD diagnosis  what to do, what not to do, and how to support your child (and yourself) through the transition. You'll learn how to identify your child's unique learning style, create predictable routines that reduce chaos, and understand why your calm nervous system is your child's greatest anchor. Stephanie shares her personal story as a mom to a now-thriving neurodivergent son and the lessons that shaped both her home and her clinical practice. Whether you're just beginning this journey or you've been in the trenches for a while, this episode will give you hope, direction, and tools that truly work. What You'll Learn: How to emotionally process an ADHD diagnosis without blame or shame Why understanding your child's learning style can transform motivation and cooperation Practical, solution-focused steps to build structure and reduce overwhelm How family systems and nervous system regulation play a vital role in your child's success The single most important shift every ADHD parent needs to make  from control to connection Resources Mentioned: Visit www.ThePathToPeaceTherapy.com for parent resources and ADHD tools  Follow on Instagram: @ThePathToPeaceTherapy  Listen to more episodes of The Path to Peace Therapy Podcast on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts About the Host: Stephanie Buckley is a Parenting Strategist, Family Systems Coach, and AMFT Solution-Focused Therapist, specializing in ADHD, anxiety, depression, and family dynamics. She's been married for over three decades and is the proud mom of a thriving 23-year-old neurodivergent son. Her work combines lived experience with clinical insight to help families find calm, connection, and practical solutions that last. Disclaimer: This episode is for educational purposes and to provide support. It's not a substitute for professional mental health evaluation, diagnosis, or treatment. The more we learn to recognize the signs behind the behaviors, the more compassion and support we can offer to our kids, our partners, and ourselves. Thank you for spending this time with me. If this episode was helpful, please share it with another parent, educator, or caregiver who might need it too. You can also subscribe to stay up to date on future episodes and find additional tools at ThePathToPeaceTherapy.com. And as always take a deep breath, give yourself some grace, and remember:  You've got this, and I've got you.

Balloon Breathing: The Somatic Tool Kids Love for Calming Big Feelings Welcome back to The Path to Peace Therapy Podcast. I'm Stephanie Buckley an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist, a Parenting Strategist, and a Family Systems Coach. I specialize in ADHD, anxiety, depression. and I've also been married for over three decades and raised a now-thriving 23 year old neurodivergent son. "Have you ever watched your child get so upset that nothing works no talking, no redirecting, no reasoning? Sometimes, words can't calm the storm. But their breath can. And today I'm going to teach you a playful tool called Balloon Breathing that kids love, and parents can use anytime, anywhere."  Sections: What Balloon Breathing Is Kid-friendly story: "Your belly is like a balloon." Step-by-Step Instructions Walk parents through the guided 4-count cycle. Include a live practice round. The Science Explain how belly breathing activates the parasympathetic system and calms the amygdala. Real-Life Uses Morning jitters, homework stress, bedtime, meltdowns. Closing "Want the free Balloon Breathing printable to use at home? Grab it in the show notes." I see families in-person in Hermosa Beach, Manhattan Beach, Redondo Beach, Torrance, Palos Verdes, and El Segundo and I provide virtual therapy across California plus parent coaching worldwide. Listen to the full episode: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-path-to-peace-therapy-podcast/id1800952648?i=1000712017959 Need more support?   Learn more & connect: ThePathToPeaceTherapy.com | stephanieb@thepathtopeacetherapy.com | 310-991-8768 Follow on Instagram: @ThePathToPeaceTherapy

Divorce changes your marriage but it doesn't have to destroy your parenting team. In this episode of The Path to Peace Therapy Podcast, Stephanie Buckley, AMFT Solution-Focused Therapist,Parenting Strategist & Family Systems Coach, shares how parents can remain united for their children even after separation. With practical tools, family systems insights, and real-life scripts, you'll learn how to bring stability and consistency to your child's world without losing yourself in conflict. What You'll Learn in This Episode: What it truly means to be "Divorced But United" Why consistency across households is one of the greatest gifts you can give your kids The most common barriers to co-parenting unity (resentment, communication breakdowns, different parenting styles) Practical strategies: shared values lists, communication apps, modeling respect, and celebrating milestones peacefully Word-for-word scripts to keep kids out of the middle while presenting a united front How a united parenting alliance strengthens children's emotional regulation, trust, and long-term resilience Why This Matters: Children of parents who remain a team even when divorced grow up with greater emotional stability, healthier attachment patterns, and better executive functioning. Modeling cooperation teaches them conflict resolution, respect, and how to build strong relationships of their own. Resources & Next Steps: Dive deeper into co-parenting, family systems, and parenting strategies on Patreon: Patreon.com/ThePathToPeaceTherapyPodcast Follow Stephanie on Instagram: @ThePathToPeaceTherapy Parenting Strategist & Family Systems Coach
Creator of The Path to Peace Therapy Podcast Website: ThePathToPeaceTherapy.com
  Podcast: The Path to Peace Therapy Podcast (Apple & Spotify)
  Instagram: @ThePathToPeaceTherapy
  Pinterest: ThePathToPeaceTherapy22 Learn more or book a session (in person in Hermosa Beach or virtually across California) at ThePathToPeaceTherapy.com Take a deep breath, give yourself some grace, and remember: peace is possible, and you don't have to do this alone. You got this, and I've got you.

Episode Summary: Divorce is already difficult, but when kids are pulled into the middle, the damage can last a lifetime. In this episode of The Path to Peace Therapy Podcast, Stephanie Buckley, AMFT Solution-Focused Therapist, breaks down the hidden harm of triangulation when children become the messenger, pawn, or referee between parents. You'll learn what triangulation looks like, why it's so harmful to children's emotional and neurological development, and most importantly, how to stop it. Stephanie shares practical scripts, family systems insights, and boundary-setting tools to keep your child safe and emotionally free. What You'll Learn in This Episode: The psychology of triangulation and why it happens during divorce. Real-life examples of how kids get caught in the middle—and the damage it causes. The role of the amygdala and prefrontal cortex in why kids cannot carry adult-level stress. Scripts to use when your ex tries to communicate through your child. Boundaries that protect kids while restoring balance to your co-parenting dynamic. How to reinforce your child's role as just the child, not the go-between. Why This Matters: Children who are protected from triangulation grow up with stronger attachment bonds, better emotional regulation, and healthier executive functioning. By refusing to use your child as a messenger, you're giving them the priceless gift of stability. Resources & Next Steps: For deeper dives into divorce, co-parenting with a narcissist, and ADHD family systems, join me on Patreon at Patreon.com/ThePathToPeaceTherapyPodcast. Follow me on Instagram: @ThePathToPeaceTherapy Learn more or book a session (in person in Hermosa Beach or virtually across California) at ThePathToPeaceTherapy.com. Take a deep breath, give yourself some grace, and remember: peace is possible, and you don't have to do this alone. You got this, and I've got you.

Welcome back to The Path to Peace Therapy Podcast. I'm Stephanie Buckley an AMFT Solution-Focused Therapist who specializes in ADHD, anxiety, depression, and narcissistic relationships. I'm also a mom to a now-thriving 23-year-old neurodivergent son, and I've been married for over three decades. If you want to go deeper, I do extended deep dives over on Patreon at Patreon.com/ThePathToPeaceTherapyPodcast, where I cover subjects that are too complex or sensitive to fit into this main feed. You'll find bonus episodes, scripts, and tools waiting for you there. Don't forget to subscribe on Apple Podcasts and Spotify so you never miss an episode. In this episode, we're diving into the profound physical and psychological toll of being in a relationship with a narcissistic individual. We'll explore the science behind your body's survival mechanisms, from the constant state of hypervigilance to the four key trauma responses: fight, flight, freeze, and fawn. Most importantly, we'll provide actionable tools and techniques for calming your nervous system and finding a sense of safety, even when your external environment feels chaotic. Key Concepts Discussed: Hypervigilance: Understanding the state of being in a constant high-alert mode, and how this impacts your body's allostatic load. Trauma Responses: A breakdown of the four main ways your body reacts to perceived threats fight, flight, freeze, and fawn and how these responses play out in narcissistic dynamics. Nervous System Regulation: Practical tools for calming your body, including somatic awareness, grounding techniques, and vagus nerve stimulation. Establishing Boundaries: The importance of creating psychological and physical boundaries to protect your energy and reclaim your sense of self. Tools and Exercises: The 5-4-3-2-1 Grounding Technique Diaphragmatic Breathing with Extended Exhale The "Grey Rock" Method Mindful Self-Compassion Break Stephanie Buckley Parenting Strategist & Family Systems Coach Creator of The Path to Peace Therapy Podcast  Website: ThePathToPeaceTherapy.com  Podcast: The Path to Peace Therapy Podcast (Apple & Spotify)  Instagram: @ThePathToPeaceTherapy  Pinterest: ThePathToPeaceTherapy22

Welcome back to The Path to Peace Therapy Podcast. I'm Stephanie Buckley an AMFT Solution-Focused Therapist who specializes in ADHD, anxiety, depression. I'm also a Parenting Strategist & Family Systems Coach, a mom to a now-thriving 23-year-old neurodivergent son, and I've been married for over three decades. Praise is powerful but only when it's intentional. In this episode of The Path to Peace Therapy Podcast, Stephanie Buckley, AMFT, Parenting Strategist, and Family Systems Coach, explores how praise can be transformed from empty "good jobs" into neuroscience-backed tools that rewire a child's brain for resilience, self-regulation, and confidence. Stephanie breaks down the acronym P.R.A.I.S.E.-Purposeful, Reflective, Authentic, Individualized, Specific, and Empowering and integrates decades of psychological research, from Deci and Ryan's Self-Determination Theory to Carol Dweck's Growth Mindset, Russell Barkley's ADHD framework, and Joseph LeDoux's amygdala research. Parents will learn not only what to say, but why it works neurologically and emotionally, across childhood and adolescence. This is a deep dive into family systems, executive functioning, and the brain's reward circuitryexplained with compassion, clarity, and practical examples you can use tonight at the dinner table, before a test, or on the sidelines of a soccer game. • Website: ThePathToPeaceTherapy.com • Instagram: @ThePathToPeaceTherapy • Therapy Sessions (California residents): Book online at The Path to Peace Therapy If this episode resonated with you, please rate, review, and share it with another parent, teacher, or caregiver who wants to transform the way they use praise. And remember—you got this, and I've got you.

Welcome back to The Path to Peace Therapy Podcast. I'm Stephanie Buckley an AMFT Solution-Focused Therapist who specializes in ADHD, anxiety, depression. I'm also a Parenting Strategist & Family Systems Coach, a mom to a now-thriving 23-year-old neurodivergent son, and I've been married for over three decades. Why do kids so often lose it on Monday mornings? In this episode of The Path to Peace Therapy Podcast, Stephanie Buckley AMFT Solution-Focused Therapist, Parenting Strategist  breaks down the neuroscience, psychology, and family systems dynamics behind the dreaded Monday meltdown. and mom to a thriving 23-year-old  You'll learn: How the prefrontal cortex (decision-making center) and the amygdala (threat detector) collide on Monday mornings. Why circadian rhythm disruption and "social jet lag" make kids act out. How anticipatory anxiety and the "Sunday Scaries" show up in kids and parents. Why meltdowns are really attachment cues not disrespect. The hidden role of micro-stressors (like missing shoes, dirty dishes, vague instructions, or last-minute schedule changes) in overwhelming your child's nervous system. Practical tools like the Sacco Bowl (your new favorite drop zone), micro-doses of regulation (breathwork, EFT tapping), and reflection routines that turn chaos into learning moments. How executive function scaffolding helps kids build independence, confidence, and resilience. This episode is packed with neuroscience, family systems insight, and solution-focused tools to help you transform Mondays from meltdowns into meaningful resets This episode is for educational purposes and not a substitute for professional evaluation or treatment. And if you want to go deeper, I do extended deep dives over on Patreon at Patreon.com/ThePathToPeaceTherapyPodcast, where I cover subjects that are too complex or sensitive to fit into this main feed. You'll find bonus episodes, scripts, and tools waiting for you there. Don't forget to subscribe on Apple Podcasts and Spotify so you never miss an episode. Thank you for spending this time with me. If this episode was helpful, I'd love it if you shared it with a fellow parent, caregiver, or educator who might need it too. You can also subscribe to stay up to date on future episodes and check out additional tools and resources at ThePathToPeaceTherapy.com. I provide both in-person and virtual sessions for families across California. And as always take a deep breath, give yourself some grace, and remember: peace is possible, and you don't have to do this alone. Monday Fresh Start Playlist on Spotify  https://open.spotify.com/playlist/1VlkL6oGImfkgC1Doqws37?si=hsSJXkclS9mm07SHDO-gbwπ=zivMW0MXQYCy4 Stephanie Buckley Parenting Strategist & Family Systems Coach Follow me @ Website: ThePathToPeaceTherapy.com  Podcast: The Path to Peace Therapy Podcast (Apple & Spotify) Instagram: @ThePathToPeaceTherapy Pinterest: ThePathToPeaceTherapy22

Welcome back to The Path to Peace Therapy Podcast. I'm Stephanie Buckley an AMFT Solution-Focused Therapist who specializes in ADHD,  anxiety, depression. I'm also a Parenting Strategist &  Bowen Family Systems Coach, a mom to a now-thriving 23-year-old neurodivergent son, and I've been married for over three decades. The Two-CEO Problem: When Your Parenting Styles Clash Ever feel like you're working for two bosses with completely different rules? For kids, this is the daily reality of a home with mismatched parenting styles. In this episode, I'm Stephanie Buckley, and we're breaking down why a lack of unity between parents can create confusion, anxiety, and conflict for your children. In this episode, we discuss: The 4 Parenting Styles: A clear breakdown of Authoritative, Authoritarian, Permissive, and Uninvolved styles, and how each one impacts your child's development. The Mismatches That Cause Chaos: We explore the common conflicts that lead to triangulation, attachment dissonance, and the underdevelopment of executive functioning skills. From Chaos to Calm: Learn how a unified, consistent approach to leadership at home can calm your child's nervous system, strengthen your family bond, and reduce daily stress for everyone. Listen now to gain the tools you need to lead your family with clarity and purpose. This episode is for educational purposes and not a substitute for professional evaluation or treatment. And if you want to go deeper, I do extended deep dives over on Patreon at Patreon.com/ThePathToPeaceTherapyPodcast, where I cover subjects that are too complex or sensitive to fit into this main feed. You'll find bonus episodes, scripts, and tools waiting for you there. Don't forget to subscribe on Apple Podcasts and Spotify so you never miss an episode. Thank you for spending this time with me. If this episode was helpful, I'd love it if you shared it with a fellow parent, caregiver, or educator who might need it too. You can also subscribe to stay up to date on future episodes and check out additional tools and resources at ThePathToPeaceTherapy.com. I provide both in-person and virtual sessions for families across California. And as always take a deep breath, give yourself some grace, and remember: peace is possible, and you don't have to do this alone. ADHD Parenting Strategist & Family Systems Coach Creator of The Path to Peace Therapy Podcast  Website: ThePathToPeaceTherapy.com  Podcast: The Path to Peace Therapy Podcast (Apple & Spotify)  Instagram: @ThePathToPeaceTherapy  Pinterest: ThePathToPeaceTherapy22