The School Of Custody Podcast

Identification with the Agressor

🎙️ Identification with the Aggressor: When Your Child Turns Against You
Is your child acting aggressively, violently, or with hostility after you’ve left an abusive relationship? You're not alone—and there’s a psychological explanation that might help you make sense of it.
In this episode, we explore Identification with the Aggressor—a defense mechanism in which children unconsciously adopt the behaviors of an abusive or manipulative parent. We break down how and why this happens, especially in the context of high-conflict custody battles and domestic violence.
In this episode, we cover:
What is “Identification with the Aggressor”
How children can be used as tools by controlling ex-partners
Challenges with the family court when one parent refuses help
Strategies for talking to your child without escalating conflict
How to avoid being mischaracterized as the “toxic” parent
Practical tips for documentation
Whether you’re a parent, survivor, or professional working with families in crisis, this conversation offers clarity, compassion, and actionable steps.
💡 Want to share your story or be a guest on the podcast?
Visit www.SchoolOfCustody.com

A Victim Doesn't Falsely Accuse

🎙️ Are You Being Falsely Accused of Falsely Accusing?
Podcast Episode Description:
🎙️ Are You Being Falsely Accused of Falsely Accusing?
In this compelling episode of The School of Custody podcast, we confront a damaging and all-too-common narrative: that survivors of domestic violence fabricate abuse to gain custody or control. If you’ve been accused of lying about abuse—or if you're fighting to protect your children in a high-conflict custody case—this episode offers clarity, validation, and critical insight.
We explore:
How domestic violence cases are handled by police and prosecutors
Why it's the state, not the victim, that presses charges
How abusers and their attorneys shift blame to discredit victims
What to expect in criminal vs. family court
How to safeguard your children from alienation and misinformation
While not a substitute for legal or therapeutic advice, this episode is grounded in lived experience and professional insight. You're not alone, and your story matters.
🔗 Visit schoolofcustody.com to suggest future topics or access support resources.
⚠️ Trigger Warning: This episode contains discussion of domestic violence and legal proceedings.
We explore:
How domestic violence cases are handled by police and prosecutors
Why it's the state, not the victim, that presses charges
How abusers and their attorneys shift blame to discredit victims
What to expect in criminal vs. family court
How to safeguard your children from alienation and misinformation
While not a substitute for legal or therapeutic advice, this episode is grounded in lived experience and professional insight. You're not alone, and your story matters.
🔗 Visit schoolofcustody.com to suggest future topics or access support resources.
⚠️ Trigger Warning: This episode contains discussion of domestic violence and legal proceedings.

Witnessing Domestic Violence

Description:
⚠️ Trigger Warning: This episode discusses real-life domestic violence incidents witnessed in public settings.
In this powerful and emotional episode, we recount a disturbing moment that unfolded in downtown Philadelphia — an act of domestic violence in a public plaza, witnessed by bystanders and, heartbreakingly, two small children. Through this firsthand account, we explore what it means to witness abuse, how society often reacts (or doesn't), and the deep impact it has on young observers.
We talk about what coercive control looks like, how abuse can shape a child's worldview, and what you can do — safely — if you witness violence. Whether you’re a survivor, a bystander, or an advocate, this episode provides clear and compassionate guidance on how to respond, seek help, and protect vulnerable children.
👂 Listen in to understand how we can shift the norm and create a safer world, one act of courage and compassion at a time.
If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, reach out to local resources or the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1−800−799−SAFE (7233).

Child Custody and Substance Abuse

DUI with kids in the car? Discover the life-changing consequences of custody battles. A must-hear.

Help Alienated Kids

🎙️ Episode Title: Help Alienated Kids
In this episode, we reflect on a powerful video from the Anti-Aliénation Project titled "No One Is Helping the Kids Because the Experts Won't Work Together." Hosted by Madison McCain in conversation with Dorsey Pruder—both adult survivors of parental alienation—the video highlights the frustrating reality: children are being harmed while professionals argue over definitions.
We dive into the divide between two main schools of thought—those aligned with Richard Gardner’s Parental Alienation Syndrome and those, like Dr. Craig Childress, who advocate using established psychological abuse criteria found in the DSM.
This episode also explores the importance of elevating the voices of adult children who have lived through alienation, recognizing them as the true experts in this field.
Drawing from my own background in crisis intervention, child abuse prevention, and legal advocacy, I share insights into why the system is failing children and what reforms, especially in legal education and training, could make a real difference. 
👁️‍🗨️ Topics Covered:
The professional divide around parental alienation terminology
The real impact on children—told by those who lived it
Legal system shortcomings and training gaps
A path forward: five key areas where education on Parental Alienation is needed.
Why survivor voices must lead the conversation
If you care about child welfare, family court reform, or the psychology of family trauma, this episode is for you. Don’t miss this critical conversation.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

Custody and Child discipline

In this episode, we explore how traditional discipline methods can backfire in high-conflict divorce situations and how understanding intergenerational trauma can shift parenting approaches. Inspired by the Family Separation Clinic and Karen Woodall, we focus on awareness, healing, and growth.

Parental Alienation Is Child Abuse

In this powerful episode, we uncover the hidden trauma of parental alienation. From a moment of reflection in Golden, Colorado, to Amanda Sillars’ inspiring work with EMMM, and “Lynn’s story” of abuse and legal failure, this is a call for awareness, advocacy, and change.

Mental Health Divorce & Custody

In this episode, we dive into the intersection of mental health and divorce—how diagnoses can be weaponized, the risks of untreated issues, and the emotional toll on both parents and kids. Learn about parentification, emotional regulation, and creating safe spaces for children. This is awareness, not advice—always consult a professional. #DivorceSupport #MentalHealthAwareness

Good Enough Parent

Why does being a "good enough" parent sometimes lead to rejection? This episode dives into parental alienation, narcissistic abuse, and custody challenges. Hear Carmen's heartbreaking story and learn how courts often fail targeted parents. Spot early signs of alienation, protect your truth, and stay strong through high-conflict co-parenting. 

Child's Perspective on Domestic Violence

Children and teens who witness domestic violence carry lasting scars. In this episode, we explore their perspectives, the impact of seeing and experiencing domestic violence, and how to break the cycle. Learn to access support and understand how abusers manipulate healing. You are not alone—help is within reach.  Resources & Support:  National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-7233, www.schoolofcustody.com