When Families Blend: A conversation on relationship dynamics, divorce and navigating the stepfamily process, with Jamie Simkins, LCPC

Our guest this week is, Jamie Simkins, LCPC. Jamie is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and is the owner of Hemispheres Counseling and founder of the Rebel Stepmom Academy. Jamie specializes in addressing the unique challenges faced by stepmothers, helping them navigate complex family dynamics and build healthy, fulfilling relationships.

Holding a Master’s degree in Counseling Psychology, Jamie has further honed her skills with specialized training in family systems therapy and conflict resolution.

As a stepmother herself, Jamie understands the specific issues and pressures stepmothers can encounter. She is deeply committed to creating supportive spaces for stepmothers to share their experiences and learn effective coping strategies.

TUMAT Takeaways:

• The way couples handle conflict is a strong predictor of the health of the relationship. Couples should focus on the way the argue rather than their occurrence, emphasizing kindness, respect, and openness.

• Arguments in front of children can be traumatic; it's vital for them to see healthy disagreements and resolutions to feel secure.

• Children exposed to toxic arguments may subconsciously replicate these dynamics as adults, attempting to heal childhood traumas.

• Blended families need dedicated effort and intent to foster a positive environment, challenging misconceptions about abusive relationships and focusing on healing and growth.

• Education and clear communication are vital in addressing the complexities of blended families.

• Prioritizing the marital relationship in a blended family setting is essential for a supportive and healthy household.

Connect with Jamie, here:

⁠Rebel Stepmoms⁠

⁠Hemispheres Counseling⁠