Family Estrangement on the Rise: Psychotherapist Michael Travis Halyard Offers Support, Perspective

April 10, 2025 at 10:31 AM EDT

As family estrangement becomes increasingly common, San Francisco therapist Michael Travis Halyard, LPCC, LMFT, provides guidance, validation, and community support for those navigating the pain and complexity of familial disconnection.

(PRUnderground) April 10th, 2025

Family estrangement, once considered rare or taboo, is now a growing reality for millions of Americans. Recent studies show that 27% of U.S. adults are estranged from at least one family member, and a 2024 Harris Poll reveals that 35% have no contact with someone in their immediate family — such as a parent, sibling, or adult child.

Estrangement refers to the emotional or physical distancing between individuals who were once close, most commonly within families. It results from a breakdown in communication, trust, or connection, often due to unresolved conflict, betrayal, abuse, or mismatched values and boundaries. It may be temporary or permanent and can be initiated by either party.

“Estrangement is the emotional severing of a relationship that was once assumed to be lifelong and unconditional,” says San Francisco psychotherapist Michael Travis Halyard, LPCC, LMFT.

Halyard notes a growing correlation between the rise in estrangement and the increasing prevalence of narcissistic traits in the general population. “Individuals with narcissistic personality disorder are statistically more likely to initiate estrangements,” he explains. “They often devalue loved ones to the point where they see no inherent worth in the relationship. Viewing themselves as superior to others, they can be strikingly cruel and callous. Their lack of empathy plays a central role in their capacity to cut people off without remorse.”

Halyard specializes in working with individuals navigating the emotional fallout of estrangement, especially in the context of narcissism and emotional abuse. “In nearly all the estrangement cases I see, narcissism plays a central role,” he says. “Sometimes it’s the narcissist who discards others. Other times, it’s the survivor choosing to distance themselves from the narcissist to preserve their mental and emotional health.”

According to Halyard, estrangement rarely stems from a single event. It usually follows long-standing patterns of boundary violations, emotional neglect, gaslighting, or chronic conflict. “It can unfold gradually or erupt after a final betrayal,” he says. “Either way, the emotional toll is immense.”

“Narcissists also frequently scapegoat family members, blaming them for relationship problems while avoiding accountability.” Halyard adds that not all estrangements are narcissistically driven. “Some families split over political, religious, or value-based differences,” Halyard notes.

Those affected often report grief, guilt, shame, anxiety, and isolation. “You’re mourning someone who’s still alive — someone who may deny your pain or blame you entirely. That’s a very complicated loss,” Halyard explains. “And society doesn’t always understand or validate that experience.”

Yet for many, estrangement becomes a turning point. “Whether the estrangement is by choice or imposed, it can mark a new beginning,” he says. “After the initial grief, many clients experience relief and empowerment. They’re no longer being gaslighted or invalidated — and that opens the door to healing.”

To support those on this path, Halyard offers psychotherapy for clients in California and facilitates The Estrangement Project USA, a private Facebook support group where people can safely share experiences, ask questions, and find solidarity. “Community is critical,” he emphasizes. “You are not alone. There are others walking the same path — and together, healing becomes more possible.”

Join the community: facebook.com/groups/estrangementproject

Halyard’s website — www.sanfrancisco-psychotherapy.com — also features a comprehensive Estrangement Resource Section — sanfrancisco-psychotherapy.com/estrangement — covering topics such as parental alienation, ghosting, boundary-setting, and navigating the grief of disconnection.

“I want people to understand that healing doesn’t require the other person’s participation,” Halyard says. “It requires truth, clarity, and compassionate support. You can grieve and grow at the same time.”

Whether estrangement stems from a narcissistic parent, a toxic sibling, or multigenerational dysfunction, Halyard believes that healing is not only possible — it’s powerful. “Reconciliation isn’t always possible or safe. But even without it, you can move forward with dignity and purpose.”

About Michael Halyard, LPCC, LMFT

Michael Halyard is a licensed psychotherapist based in San Francisco, offering compassionate, results-driven support for individuals and couples seeking growth, clarity, and lasting change. With over 20 years of experience, he integrates evidence-based therapies to help clients navigate anxiety, burnout, relationship challenges, and life transitions. In-person and virtual sessions are available.

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