Abduction: Victim to Survivor

In today’s episode, I share my journey and the heartbreaking reality of family abduction. It’s not just a custody dispute; it’s a profound trauma that impacts everyone involved.You’ll hear from my dear friend Gary, who spent years working with the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children and law enforcement. He’ll shed light on the challenges faced and the resources available for those who find themselves in this painful situation.Let’s create a safe space to discuss and understand the gravity of family abductions. You’re not alone in this.#FamilyAbduction #TrueCrime #MissingChildren #SurvivorStories #ChildSafety #ParentalAbduction #NCMEC #LawEnforcement

In episode 26 of Abduction: Victim to Survivor Laura recounts her experience of being taken from her home at a young age. She describes a day that started like any other, coming home from school, only to find her father waiting in a van to take her and her brother away. - Immediate Confusion: Laura was just a child, and the shock of being taken by a parent she barely knew was overwhelming. - Feeling Unwanted: The experience was terrifying, filled with uncertainty and a sense of abandonment. Laura felt unwanted, not just by her father but by her mother as well, which deepened her emotional scars.I have known Laura for years and have had the honor of watching her in her healing journey and become the strong, compassionate, resilient woman she is today.  I hope you will watch/listen/subscribe/comment.  Thank you.Contact info:[email protected] 

Family abduction devastates lives — but understanding how mediation can help prevent, resolve, or transform these high-conflict situations offers hope. If you've ever wondered whether peaceful solutions exist when a child is forcibly taken by a parent, this episode with expert mediator Shari Doherty unveils the truth about mediation's potential—and its limits. Shari, a seasoned child advocate with 20 years of experience at Child Find of America, breaks down the complex landscape of family mediation. She reveals the three fundamentally different types—evaluative, facilitative, and transformative—and explains how each can either help or hinder healing, especially when an abduction is involved. You'll discover: the myths surrounding mediation, why some processes are inappropriate in high-conflict family separations, and how understanding these modes can make all the difference. Shari shares real stories that shine a light on success cases, including her work with searching parents and abducting parents, and the delicate balance of empathy, legal considerations, and emotional regulation. In this episode, you'll learn how mediation can empower parents, foster compassion, and even transform blame into understanding—if the parties are committed. We delve into the warning signs that mediation may do more harm than good, such as coercion, power imbalances, or the presence of domestic violence and abuse. Most critically, you'll grasp how unrecognized conflict patterns and unaddressed trauma can entrench harmful behaviors, making resolution impossible without proper guidance. Why does this matter? Because family conflict—especially involving parental abduction—can leave lifelong scars on children, affecting their emotional development and sense of safety. Without awareness of the different mediation approaches, families risk escalating trauma or losing crucial opportunities for healing. But with the right knowledge, parents, advocates, and officials can choose more effective, trauma-informed strategies to protect children and rebuild relationships. Perfect for parents, family law practitioners, and anyone involved in high-stakes custody disputes, this episode offers practical insights and hope. If you're navigating a complex family situation or want to better understand how the right mediation approach can help turn conflict into connection, don’t miss it.

A Mother's Day Message for all mothers, for mothers whose children were taken far too soon, for mothers with missing children, for mothers with children who are alienated from them,  for women who carry the ache of the children they longed for but never had, for mothers separated from their children, and for those whose mothers are gone or whose hearts still ache for the love of a mother they never truly had.

Today, I’m sharing a moving experience from a dear friend, Dr. John E. Bischoff, Vice President of the Missing Children Division of the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children, who has dedicated his life to helping families of missing children. He told a heartfelt story about his niece, who unexpectedly found herself in a race longer than she was prepared for. As she ran, she felt overwhelmed and questioned her ability to finish. But with encouragement and support, she pushed through every difficult mile. This isn’t just about running; it’s about life’s unexpected challenges. We often find ourselves in situations we didn’t choose, just like families dealing with abductions. The key is to keep going, to seek support, and to remember that you are not alone in this race. This episode also features Dr. Bischoff sharing insights on family abduction cases, the law enforcement process, and how support organizations aid families. Learn about the emotional and procedural aspects of child recovery and the vital role of case managers and community resources.Email: [email protected]: 571-412-1913Facebook: Abduction: Victim To Survivor

Episode 23 shares the powerful true story of a baby who was abducted at six weeks old by his father and endured years of abuse before being found and reunited 22 years later. The episode traces their fight back from heartbreak, underscoring how hope, vigilance, and immediate action can save lives in parental abduction cases. It also delivers an urgent truth: the child abducted by the other parent is not inherently safe—when abuse is present, a child’s safety must be the first priority, and every moment matters.Thank you so much for following the podcast, I hope you will subscribe/like/comment. I appreciate your feedback.Email: [email protected]: 571-412-1913Facebook: Abduction: Victim To Survivor #familyabduction #missingchildren #recoverystory #hopeandhealing #FamilyAbduction #reunion #childadvocacy #ParentalAbduction #childabuse #missingchildren #divorce #hope #families

I’m excited about this episode that discusses compliant victimization. When a child is abducted by a family member, the trauma runs deep. The pain is psychological.  Today, my guest and friend is Carol Ryan, LPC, LCAC.  Carol is a licensed professional counselor and addiction counselor who has worked extensively with families affected by abduction and trauma. She sheds light on how compliance can be a survival strategy for children in these situations.  It’s crucial to recognize that this behavior stems from a place of fear and manipulation. Understanding these dynamics can foster compassion and healing.  If you or someone you know is navigating these waters, remember to approach the situation with empathy and patience. The journey of recovery is complex. Let’s support one another in this heartbreaking reality. To understand compliant victimization in the context of parental abduction, watch this episode where Carol Ryan, through an in-depth conversation, reveals the intricacies of compliant victimization. Compliant victimization refers to situations where a child appears to cooperate with their abductor out of fear or psychological manipulation, rather than genuine willingness.I hope you will watch/listen/SUBSCRIBE/like/comment. I invite you to share your thoughts or experiences.  Thank you!Email:  [email protected]:  571-412-1913Facebook:  Abduction: Victim To Survivor #FamilyAbduction #SurvivorStories #TraumaAwareness #CompliantVictimization #HealingTogether  #ParentalAbduction #SearchingParent #NCMEC #MissingChildren

In the latest episode of "Abduction: Victim to Survivor," host Abby shares a poignant conversation with Kevin, a father whose life was irrevocably altered by family abduction. This episode sheds light on the emotional struggles faced by parents in similar situations and the importance of support networks in the journey toward healing and recovery.Understanding Family Abduction:Family abduction is a complex issue that impacts not only the children involved but also the searching parent. As Abby explains, this podcast aims to create awareness about the emotional and psychological turmoil that arises from these situations. Kevin's story exemplifies this struggle, as he recounts the harrowing experience of losing his two children to an international abduction.Kevin's Story:Kevin's journey begins in Belgium, where he met his ex-wife while serving in the military. Despite initial hopes for a happy family, their relationship quickly deteriorated. With two young children, Tyler and Kevin Jr., Kevin fought to maintain a semblance of normalcy. However, the situation escalated into a contentious divorce, eventually leading to his ex-wife abducting the children.During the podcast, Kevin reflects on the moment he received a surprising phone call from his daughter, who seemed to say goodbye. This haunting memory foreshadowed the impending loss as he discovered his family's home empty. Kevin’s emotional turmoil is palpable as he describes the helplessness he felt when he realized that the authorities, including the FBI, provided little to no assistance in locating his children.

In today’s episode, I share the painful yet inspiring story of recovery and reunification, featuring my amazing guest, Pina Arcamone. With her experience at the Missing Children's Network in Montreal, Canada, she sheds light on the emotional journey faced by families in crisis. Did you know that the longer a child is missing, the deeper the trauma they face? That’s why time is critical. We’ll discuss the emotional toll on parents, the kids, and everyone involved.  Pina tells the story of the reunification she facilitated that was child centered and actually the best most sensitive and beneficial reunification I have ever heard of.  Pina’s work was extraordinary.Pina reminds us that childhood should be a time of joy, not fear. Let’s work together to ensure every child can grow up safe and soundListen/watch to the full episode for more insights and inspiring stories. Comment/Like/SUBSCRIBEEmail me with your suggestions/questions/comments, I would love to hear from [email protected]

In this episode of 'Abduction Victim to Survivor', host Abby speaks with Henry, a father who shares his harrowing experience of family abduction. The conversation delves into the emotional and psychological toll of abduction on both parents and children, the complexities of international abduction, and the importance of support networks. Henry recounts the day of the abduction, the subsequent search for his daughter Pearl, and the challenges faced during their reunification. The episode emphasizes the need for understanding the perspectives of both parents and children in abduction cases and highlights the resilience required to navigate such traumatic experiences.Thank you, [email protected]

In this episode of 'Abduction Victim to Survivor', host Abby discusses the profound impact of family abduction, sharing her personal experiences and insights. Joined by Shelly Acker, they explore the importance of self-care during crises, the emotional triggers that arise from trauma, and the necessity of support systems. The conversation emphasizes practical self-care strategies, the journey of self-forgiveness, and the power of positive affirmations. Listeners are encouraged to take care of themselves while navigating the challenges of family abduction, highlighting that they are not alone in their struggles.

In this episode of "Abduction Victim to Survivor," host Abby engages in a heartfelt conversation with Chewey, a father who experienced the trauma of family abduction when his daughter, Jennifer, was taken by her mother. Chewey shares his harrowing journey of searching for his daughter, detailing the emotional turmoil and the lengths he went to in order to bring her back home. He emphasizes the importance of community support and the need for parents to remain proactive in their search for missing children. Chewey's story is not just one of loss but also of resilience, hope, and the unbreakable bond between a father and his daughter.Throughout the episode, Chewey reflects on the challenges he faced, including navigating the legal system and the emotional impact of being separated from his child. He also discusses the importance of maintaining a positive mindset and staying active in the search process. The conversation highlights the broader implications of family abduction, the psychological effects on children, and the critical role of support networks for affected families. Chewey's journey culminates in a message of hope, as he shares how his daughter is now thriving and how he continues to help others in similar situations through his volunteer work with Team Hope.

This episode features Amanda sharing her powerful story of surviving family abduction, the trauma involved, and her journey to becoming an attorney dedicated to helping others. Learn about the impact of family abduction on children and families, and the resilience needed to overcome such adversity.

My friend and colleague, Lanae Holmes, the Executive Director of Family Advocacy of the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children (NCMEC), shares the mic with me and Sarah talking about a retreat NCMEC held with survivors of sex trafficking and parental abduction. It is fascinating and shows how family abduction is not okay.

In this 13th episode of Abduction: Victim to Survivor, hosts engage in a heartfelt conversation with Baroness Catherine Meyer, who shares her personal experiences with family abduction and her advocacy work. The discussion delves into the complexities of parental alienation, the emotional impact on children, and the importance of maintaining healthy relationships post-abduction. Catherine emphasizes the resilience of children and the need for hope and understanding in navigating these challenging situations. The episode concludes with reflections on healing and the importance of children's rights.Please watch/listen/subscribe.

The conversation in this podcast episode sheds light on the often-overlooked aspects of family abduction, particularly the emotional and psychological aftermath for both children and parents. It underscores the necessity for continued research and support for affected families, ensuring they are not left to navigate their trauma alone. The insights provided by experts like Marilyn and Nicola pave the way for a better understanding of the complexities of abduction and the essential support needed for recovery.Key Takeaways: 1. Family abduction has lasting emotional and psychological impacts on victims and their families. 2. There is a critical need for evidence-based research to understand the post-return experiences of abducted children. 3. Support systems must be improved to help families navigate the challenges that arise after reunion. In this episode you will learn the important research Marilyn and Nicola are working on.  I encourage you to listen/watch this episode and if you are a parent who had a missing child or were a missing child yourself, you can click on the links below and be part of their research study.These two online surveys are available for completion until 31 March 2026 by:Parents and family members of children who have experienced their child’s removal to, and/or retention in, another country in a way which was considered wrongful in law – https://westminsterpsych.az1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_agedV42lzL7kS22Adults over 18 years of age who were previously abducted as children - https://westminsterpsych.az1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_0HBOXOpBs6UCwB0Hope you will watch/listen/subscribe.  Thank you.

Introduction: In this episode of Abduction, From Victim to Survivor, hosts Sarah and Abby delve into the harrowing yet inspiring journey of Scott, a survivor of parental abduction. Through his story, we explore the complexities of family abduction, the trauma it inflicts, and the remarkable strength it takes to overcome such adversity.

In this episode 10 of 'Abduction Victim to Survivor,' hosts Sarah C. Finkelstein Waters and Abby are joined by Professor Geoffrey Greif to discuss the complexities of parental abduction and the nuances of family reunification. They explore the emotional and cultural challenges faced by abducted children and their families, emphasizing the importance of understanding, acceptance, and healing. The conversation delves into the messiness of human relationships, the impact of cultural differences, and the journey towards reconnection and forgiveness.

In the gripping continuation of Edeanna’s story, we dive deeper into the emotional turmoil and relentless determination that comes with the fight against international child abduction. This episode 9 encapsulates her journey back to the United States, the challenges she faced in reuniting her family, and the systemic obstacles she encountered along the way. Amid her personal struggles, Adina became an advocate for legislative change, notably the International Child Abduction Prevention and Return Act (ICAPRA) of 2014, also known as the Goldman Act. This legislation aims to empower the State Department to engage diplomatically with foreign governments in cases of child abduction. Adina’s advocacy efforts were fueled by her desire to prevent other families from enduring similar hardships. “I was able to start using ICAPRA in the diplomatic spaces,” she shared, underscoring her commitment to creating a safer environment for children.Edeanna’s journey began with a heart-wrenching decision: leaving her son behind in Tunisia to return to the US with her daughter, Zainab. The emotional weight of this choice was immense, as she described it as “the hardest thing and the most necessary thing” she ever did. This decision set the stage for a battle that would test her resilience and strength as a mother.Edeanna’s story serves as a profound reminder of the resilience of a mother’s love and the importance of community support in times of crisis. Her journey sheds light on the complexities of international child abduction and the necessity for systemic change to protect children and families. As we reflect on her experiences, we are reminded of the power of advocacy and the need for continued awareness and action in the fight against parental child abduction.

Have you ever thought about what a parent goes through when their child is abducted? In our latest episode, Edeanna shares her heart-wrenching journey of fighting for her kids after they were taken to Tunisia. The power of a mother’s love knows no bounds! ❤️ What do you think is the most important thing a parent should do in such a crisis? Share your thoughts! 

This episode discusses the critical process of reunification for children who have been abducted, emphasizing the importance of emotional support, mental health resources, and understanding the complexities involved in the reunification process. Abby, Sarah, and Lanae, Executive Director Family Advocacy Division, National Center for Missing and Exploited Children, share personal experiences and insights from their work at the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children, highlighting the evolution of family advocacy and the need for a trauma-informed approach to reunification.

This conversation explores the harrowing journey of Violaine, a mother who endured two abductions of her son, Ryan, and her relentless fight to bring him back. Through emotional storytelling, Violaine shares the complexities of navigating international law, the trauma of separation, and the resilience required to reconnect with her son. The discussion highlights the importance of support networks for parents of abducted children and the long-term effects of such experiences on both parents and children.

In this episode, Linnea shares her harrowing story of abduction and the complex dynamics of her family life. From her early years in Long Island to her experiences in Turkey and Sweden, Linnea discusses the emotional turmoil of being taken away from her father and the impact of parental conflict on her identity. She reflects on the challenges of reconnecting with her family, the trauma of her upbringing, and the importance of understanding and healing from her past. The conversation also touches on the cultural differences in parenting, the effects of abuse, and the journey towards self-acceptance and wholeness.

In this heartfelt conversation, Abby and Ian discuss their experiences with abduction, trauma, and the journey towards healing. They explore the importance of trust, the challenges of familial abduction, and the role of support networks like Team HOPE. Ian shares his personal story of loss and growth, emphasizing the need for emotional support and understanding in navigating the complexities of reunification with a child. The discussion highlights the ongoing nature of healing and the impact of trauma on identity and relationships. #abduction, #survivor, #NCMEC, #emotionalsupport, #familialabduction, #healingjourney, #trust, #mentalhealth, #reunification, #trauma, #familyabduction, #parentalabduction, #Highconflictdivorce,Facebook:  Abduction: Victim To [email protected]

In this conversation, Sarah Cecilie Finkelstein Waters shares her profound experiences as a child who was placed on a milk carton as a missing child in the 80s. She reflects on the emotional turmoil of being reunited with her mother and the identity crisis that ensued, highlighting the complexities of family dynamics and childhood trauma.

In this episode, Sarah, Abby and Heather McTaggart-Bryan discuss the complexities of trauma experienced by children who have been victims of parental abduction. Heather shares her extensive experience in therapy, emphasizing the importance of expressive therapies like sand tray and play therapy in helping children process their trauma. The conversation highlights the challenges of recovery, the role of art in healing, and the need for a supportive environment for both children and parents navigating the aftermath of abduction. Heather also addresses the misconceptions surrounding trauma and the necessity of creating safe spaces for healing.

In this episode of 'Victim to Survivor', hosts Sarah and Abby delve into Abby's harrowing experience of family abduction. Abby recounts the day her son Sam was taken by his father, the ensuing search, and the emotional turmoil that followed. The conversation explores themes of trauma, community support, and the complexities of healing after such a profound loss. Abby shares insights on the impact of abduction on family dynamics, the importance of understanding both the parent's and child's perspectives, and the journey towards finding purpose in pain. This heartfelt discussion emphasizes the need for compassion, understanding, and proactive measures in the face of family abduction.