So many kids who turn to substances are brilliant. Often that brilliance gets wielded in a variety of unhealthy ways and can wreck the power balance of an entire household. Perhaps you've felt telltale signs like being held hostage with gaslighting and emotional blackmail. Perhaps you woke up one day to realize you've been walking on eggshells, allowing your child to control the interactions in your own house for months. My guest today says that there are ways to right the ship, stop negotiating when appropriate, and still communicate effectively with our kids. Dr. Janet Sasson-Edgette is not only a mother of three, but also a child and adolescent psychologist who has written half a dozen books in the field. Today we discuss: - The surprisingly simple and genuine conversational techniques that sets Dr. Edgette apart from many other therapists - Why it's important for your child to know you as a person (not just as a parent) - Why kids are actually craving realism and accountability in their therapeutic relationships - Some strategies from her book, Stop Negotiating With Your Teen: Strategies for parenting your angry, manipulative, moody or depressed adolescent _________________________________________ The podcast is now part of a nonprofit called Hopestream Community: www.hopestreamcommunity.org Learn about The Stream, our private online community for moms, at www.hopestreamcommunity.org/the-stream/ Find us on Instagram: @hopestreamcommunity Download my free e-book, HINDSIGHT: Three Things I Wish I Knew When My Son Was Misusing Drugs: www.brendazane.com/hindsight Join my email list: www.brendazane.com/email