ALUNA TEMPLE MAGAZINE Edition No3 'INITIATIONS' | Page 34

Final note on the dad and daughter connection: Teenage girls find it easier to talk to their mothers, which can make fathers feel as if they are not needed. However, this is not the case. Teenage girls may find self-esteem in their relationships with mothers, but they find guidance about how to relate to others and how to plan for the future from their father. Strong fathering calls for presence and consistency. A strong father acts as a coach and guide in empowering his daughter to make decisions on her own and who helps build foundation of trust and respect. Family © www.free-extras.com Shushann is a Psychotherapist /Counselor, Educator, Coach and Author of national bestseller Puberty Girl (2004). She works with individuals, couples, parents and young people and has a private practice in Sydney for over 20 years. Shushann has been featured in the Sydney Morning Herald’s Essential and Body and Soul Magazines on her expertise in parenting as well as interviewed on Radio 2GB. To learn more about her work and future workshops on ‘Bringing Dads and Daughters Together’ contact her at [email protected] 34