In 2022 Jill trained at the Institute of Family Therapy (Malta) and was awarded one of the first post-graduate qualifications in Parental Alienation Studies.  This followed on from Jill's extensive experience in parental alienation in her own practice. She also had the privilege of earlier training in 2018 with Karen Woodall at the Family Separation Clinic in London. Karen is a recognised expert in the management of child and parent alienation and offers training to experienced practitioners.

Some children will display an alienation reaction because of the conflicted dynamics around them – others show a justified rejection because of upsetting or abusive behaviour from a parent.

A third category involves children who perceive one parent as “all good” and the other parent as “all bad”. A previously loved parent is now demonised by that child,and the child will demonstrate fear ,hysteria and deep hatred of that parent. In this mix we typically find an aligned parent who shows implacable hostility to the alienated parent. Despite their words, the aligned parent either does nothing to help resolve the situation – or in fact will encourage the child to withdraw completely from their other parent.

It is well known that children struggle to cross the ‘transition bridge’ from one parent to the other when parents are in conflict. The significant key to such heartbreaking cases is the understanding the dynamics of the situation.

Jill’s professional work with alienation begins with a differentiation process, in order to understand the reasons for the child’s withdrawal.  This understanding can be achieved relatively quickly via well researched treatment routes.
True parental alienation is considered an abuse which is on a par with other child abuses, and which many international jurisdictions now classify as a crime.

The damage done to a child, as a result of being poisoned against a loving parent, is serious and long lasting. Progress is increasing internationally in the understanding and treatment of such cases.

In New Zealand, there is a wide variation of understanding about these cases. The wilful refusal of one parent to comply with contact orders is less and less tolerated. But the delay factor, still so characteristic of such cases is very harmful.

It is important to name and understand alienation correctly, and as early as possible. And to work on a path forward to resolve it.

Jill’s work in the promotion of child inclusion in the out of court mediation process further facilitates the diagnosis and management of earlier alienation trends.  Her work is acknowledged by researchers as highly significant in the prevention and management of the early resist refuse dynamic  in children, along with parental education and understanding of the damage which can occur.

Jill offers training for professionals in this subject, as well as webinars for parents who are trying to manage alienation in their lives.