EP234: How To Support Young Adults Through Nonlinear Life Paths

What if growing up doesn’t follow a straight line anymore, and that’s perfectly normal? This episode explores the evolving journey of emerging adulthood, the hidden challenges today’s young people face, and how parents can support them without falling into outdated expectations. From delayed independence to collaborative planning, discover why there's no one-size-fits-all path to thriving.

What to expect in this episode:

• Why the path to adulthood looks different now
• What college readiness really means
• How to recognize when your child needs a pause before a plan
• Why collaboration, not control, helps emerging adults thrive
• What many parents misunderstand about the 18–25 experience

About Joanna Lilley, MA, NCC
Joanna is the founder of Lilley Consulting, where she helps emerging adults (18–29) who are struggling with the transition to independence. With a Master’s in Counseling from West Virginia University and over a decade of experience in wilderness therapy, college recovery programs, and academic support, she specializes in connecting young adults with the right therapeutic and wellness resources. Joanna is known for her honest, empathetic, and solution-focused approach. She also hosts the Success is Subjective podcast, highlighting non-linear paths to adulthood and the complex realities facing today’s young adults.

Connect with Joanna

• Website: Lilley Consulting
• LinkedIn: Joanna Lilley, MA, NCC
• Facebook: Lilley Consulting
• YouTube: Lilley Consulting / Success is Subjective Podcast
• Podcast: Lilley Consulting
  
  

Related Links:

• EP144: Helping Young Adults get back on Track
  https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ep-144-helping-young-adults-get-back-on-track/id1565976964?i=1000641123620
• EP213: Life After 18: Unique Paths for Neurodivergent Young Adults
  https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ep213-life-after-18-unique-paths-for-neurodivergent/id1565976964?i=1000706653868

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Read the full blog here:
https://impactparents.com/how-to-support-young-adults-through-nonlinear-life-paths

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