“By the time he left, I was felt like I was close to a mental breakdown. And I would tell my husband over and over, I can’t do this long, much longer. I just can’t.

You know, I would go sit in the Walmart parking lot for three hours until he went to bed. And so I was avoiding my whole family. That affected my husband because here my husband is supposed to be my protector, but legally he can’t protect me against this thirteen-year-old who’s constantly verbally abusing me.”

Hi Neighbor,

Navigating the complexities of parenting a child with Reactive Attachment Disorder (RAD) is a journey few understand, yet many adoptive parents endure in silence.

In this episode, I sit down with Karen, an adoptive mother of six and a survivor of the extraordinary challenges RAD can bring to a family.

Her vulnerability is a reminder that while this path is isolating, hope and healing are possible.

RAD is a daily battle that can reshape a family. In Karen, we see what it means to survive, to keep going, and to find strength through connection and support.

Anchors of Hope and Healing are on the way.

Your Neighbor, Tim

P.S. You’re not alone in this journey! I’ve set aside a limited number of free spots on a first come, first served basis and I’d love for you to be a part of it. To schedule a time with me, just email me tim@anchorsofencouragement.com

If you haven’t joined our private community, consider this an invitation. It’s a safe space to share your struggles and triumphs with fellow adoptive parents who truly understand what you're going through.

Could it be that the very struggles you've walked through have prepared you to encourage someone else?

Hi Neighbor!⁣

Why do bad things happen in life?

Some might say, “That’s just life.” But I believe there’s a deeper meaning behind that question, something worth pausing to reflect on.

In this episode, let’s reframe that narrative together. I’ll share a moment from David’s life in Psalm 13, a powerful example from Paul in 2 Corinthians 1 and 7, and a bold conversation with a queen in Esther 4.

Through their stories, we’ll explore 3 ways you can help someone restore the sparkle in their eyes even in the middle of hardship.

Anchors of Hope and Healing are on the way.

Your Neighbor, Tim

P.S. You’re not alone in this journey! I’ve set aside a limited number of free spots on a first come, first served basis and I’d love for you to be a part of it. To schedule a time with me, just email me tim@anchorsofencouragement.com

If you haven’t joined our private community, consider this an invitation. It’s a safe space to share your struggles and triumphs with fellow adoptive parents who truly understand what you're going through.

Even adults who haven’t been through trauma can tell you that it’s sometimes difficult to talk about our feelings. I think that is the beauty of music therapy. Because clients can come. They don’t necessarily need to say exactly what they want to explore. We can just explore in music.

Hi Neighbor,

Did you know that music can be a powerful tool for healing in the lives of adopted children navigating trauma?

Today, I’m excited to welcome back my neighbor from London, Crystal Luk-Worrall. Crystal is a music therapist, EMDR practitioner, and clinical supervisor who specializes in helping children and families heal from early trauma.

In Episode 180, Crystal introduced us to EMDR therapy—a powerful approach for adoptive parents supporting kids through trauma.

In this episode, she shares her personal journey—from aspiring concert pianist to discovering her true calling as a music therapist. Crystal explains how music opens up new pathways for communication and healing.

Music allows kids to express what words often can’t. In therapy, it becomes a bridge—not just between sounds, but to feelings that may be too big or complex to name. As parents, we can help our children explore their emotions rather than suppress them.

Grab a pen and paper—Crystal has some simple, practical ways you can start incorporating music therapy at home.

Anchors of Hope and Healing are on the way. Your Neighbor, Tim

P.S. You’re not alone in this journey. If you haven’t joined our private community, consider this an invitation. It’s a safe space to share your struggles and triumphs with fellow adoptive parents who truly understand what you're going through.

Listen to today’s episode and share it with fellow adoptive parents. These conversations foster strength and understanding in our community. Be the anchor others may need right now.

Connect with Crystal: Freebie: https://www.clapandtoot.com/6waystoregulate Website: https://www.clapandtoot.com/ Email: crystal@clapandtoot.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/crystal-luk/

Disclaimer: The content of this podcast is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your healthcare provider with your health questions and concerns.

As is the case with anyone that I bring on the show to talk to you, I encourage take notes and listen to the information. Then do your due diligence and use what you can in your adoption journey to parent your child the best way you can.