Even in the closest of families, conflicts can arise. As the entire family, including children, enters adulthood, it’s more important than ever to foster healthy lines of communication.

With some simple strategies, families can avoid the pitfalls and conflicts of the common and not-so-common transitions and challenges that are often experienced amongst adult children, adult siblings and elders of the family. These may include caregiving issues, new roles like grandparenting or in-lawing, or the challenges of an adult loved one making unwise or harmful choices.

Recognizing and acknowledging the fears and concerns triggered by such challenges can help improve communication and avoid power struggles. By understanding the experience of each member, families will be better equipped to address any crises or long-term concerns.

In this workshop, led by licensed mental health counselor Alison Issen, you will learn useful communication and negotiation strategies and options that can help to keep your family stable, loving and healthy, even when individual members are struggling.

Particularly as we enter the holiday season, these tools can be the key to a harmonious and happy family.

This program is presented by Alison Issen and is hosted by the Winter Park Health Foundation.

About the Presenter:  

Alison C. Issen has a Master of Science in Clinical Psychology from the University of Central Florida, and is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, as well as a Registered Nurse. Alison recently retired as the outpatient counselor at Orlando Health/UFHealth Cancer Center. For several years, Alison coordinated the Sage-ing Center, a program that encourages and supports adults of all ages, and particularly those in the second half of life, to inventory, evaluate, and intentionally plan a life of purpose, learning, fulfillment, and community service. Alison brought this comprehensive program to the hospice several years ago and developed Hospice of the Comforter’s Quality of Life Education Program. Alison has taught psychology at the college level and has worked in the field of health and wellness for over 35 years, including over 10 years as a hospice nurse and counselor. Her specialty areas include stress management, grief and loss, end-of-life, aging and relationship issues, Mindfulness-based Cognitive Therapy, and Positive Psychology. Beyond her professional life, Alison is an “extreme gardener,” volunteers at a local animal shelter, and performs with local singing and theatre groups.

Registration Note:

Please note: As of August 2023, when you register via Eventbrite for community education programs at the Center for Health & Wellbeing, you are now required to accept our Waiver and Release as part of the Eventbrite checkout process. Visit YourHealthandWellbeing.org/waiverandrelease for more details.