Adult Children of Parents with Addiction — Six-Day Residential Development Programme

The term adult children of alcoholics (ACoA) commonly refers to adults over the age of 18 who grew up living with the addiction of one or both parents or caregivers. This most often involves alcohol dependence, though other substance addictions may also be present. Families may also be affected by gambling, problematic internet or video-game use, or other problematic behaviours such as compulsive sexual behaviour, codependency, excessive work or compulsive buying.

Any of these difficulties can seriously affect children and the quality of parent–child relationships. In families affected by addiction, many family members may experience lasting difficulties. The extent of these effects depends on several individual factors. Adult children may unknowingly carry forward unhelpful family patterns, including excessive accommodation of others, avoidance or suppression of emotions.

For those encountering this subject for the first time, or newly recognising addiction in their parents’ or grandparents’ lives, we offer a six-day intensive residential retreat. A professional team accompanies the group; full board, guided group work and individual sessions help participants identify and understand the connections between their experiences and present-day patterns.

Workshops and individual conversations cover self-awareness, relationship dilemmas, stress management, mood regulation, effective communication, procrastination and time management, and practical ways to develop more structured daily routines.

Six areas addressed by the programme

1. Recognising intergenerational patterns: examining family experiences and possible trauma-related patterns to support personal identity and emotional freedom.
2. Independence, self-efficacy and confidence: strengthening core skills and addressing chronic self-doubt, self-blame or pressure to please others.
3. More effective stress management: developing healthier coping strategies.
4. Communication skills: practising clear, honest self-expression to rebuild relationships and form healthy new ones.
5. Emotional awareness and regulation: developing an understanding of emotional reactions and ways of managing them.
6. Interpersonal skills and boundaries: strengthening healthy boundaries and supporting the possibility of post-traumatic growth.

Frequently asked questions

What is included?

Participants take part in a structured programme from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., combining small-group work, individual one-to-one counselling and coaching, and themed workshops. Accommodation is provided at a well-equipped venue with full board. Three trained psychologists or counsellors stay with the group for the duration.

Who is it for?

Primarily for adults who experienced living with addiction in their family through their parents or caregivers, whether for a shorter or a longer period.

Programme elements

1. Detailed pre-programme assessment: an assessment accompanying the application helps target the support offered.
2. Workshops and additional activities: interactive workshops after arrival, with opportunities for nature-based activities and creative self-expression.
3. Practice: learning and practising new skills in a supportive setting.
4. Ongoing support: professional support throughout the programme.

Applications, dates and fees

Applications are accepted by email. Groups are planned two or three times a year, generally during school holidays. Each group has 12 participants. In 2026, the full-board participation fee is HUF 390,000–450,000 per person, depending on the accommodation.