Episode
E 367: Inner Child Healing with Megan DeMatteo
- Podcast
- Adult Child of Dysfunction
- Published
- Sep 6, 2026
- Duration seconds
- 2091
- Processing state
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Summary
Have you ever wondered why it's so hard to know who you really are after growing up in a dysfunctional family? Why setting boundaries feels uncomfortable, emotions feel overwhelming, or you find yourself living from survival instead of authenticity? In this episode of the Adult Child of Dysfunction Podcast , I sit down with writer and author Megan DeMatteo to explore the healing power of journaling, inner child work, and learning to reconnect with the parts of ourselves that had to adapt just to survive. Growing up with an alcoholic father, Megan shares how writing became much more than creative expression—it became the bridge that helped her understand her childhood, uncover the different "inner children" she had developed for protection, and begin reclaiming the person she truly is. Together, we talk about why so many adult children struggle to trust themselves, how survival adaptations often become mistaken for personality, and why healing isn't about becoming someone new—it's about remembering who you were before trauma taught you who you had to be. We also discuss emotional sobriety, dissociation, perfectionism, identity, and why journaling can become one of the most powerful healing tools available. If you've ever wondered why you feel like you're constantly performing, staying strong, or taking care of everyone else while losing yourself in the process, I think this conversation will deeply resonate with you. More importantly, I hope it reminds you that healing isn't about fixing what's broken—it's about reconnecting with the parts of yourself that have been waiting to be seen all along. Connect with Megan DeMatteo 📖 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/megdematteo ✍️ Substack: https://substack.com/@megdematteo Hey there, I’m so glad you’re here and tuning in! I…