Navigating Separation & Divorce: Putting Your Children First.

How I Can Help:

I act as a neutral guide and facilitator, helping you and your co-parent work together to create a plan that prioritizes your children's well-being. Think of me as a "co-parenting coach" – someone who helps you navigate this new territory. I don't take sides, and I don't provide legal advice (you'll need separate attorneys for that). My focus is entirely on the family dynamic and, most importantly, the children.

Here's what we'll work on together:

  • Creating a Co-Parenting Plan: This is the heart of the process. We'll develop a detailed plan that covers:

    • Living Arrangements: Where will the children live, and how will time be shared between parents? We'll consider what works best for your children's ages, needs, and schedules.

    • Communication: How will you and your co-parent communicate about the children? We'll establish clear, respectful, and child-focused communication strategies. This might involve using co-parenting apps or other tools.

    • Making Decisions Together: How will you make important decisions about your children's education, healthcare, and upbringing? We'll create a process for making both big and small decisions.

    • Financial Responsibilities: We'll discuss how you'll handle child-related expenses.

    • Handling Disagreements: What happens when you disagree? We'll create a plan for resolving conflicts constructively, so they don't negatively impact your children.

    • Maintaining Extended Family Relationships How will your children maintain bonds with grandparents and other important people on each side?

Supporting Your Children:

  • Talking to Your Kids: I can help you figure out how to talk to your children about the separation in an age-appropriate way, reassuring them that they are loved and not to blame.

  • Emotional Support: I can provide individual therapy for your children (if needed) to help them process their feelings and adjust to the changes.

  • Spotting Potential Problems: I'll help you recognize signs that your children might be struggling and suggest ways to help.

  • Improving Communication and Reducing Conflict:

    • Learning New Skills: I'll teach you practical communication and conflict resolution skills to help you manage disagreements without putting your children in the middle.

    • Finding Ways to Cooperate: Even if communication is difficult, we'll work on strategies to co-parent effectively and keep the focus on your children's needs.

  • Introducing a new partner:

    • Dating and relationships We can talk about the best way to introduce new partners to your children, and minimize conflict.

My Approach:

  • Child-Centered: Your children's well-being is always the top priority.

  • Collaborative: I work with both parents together, fostering a spirit of cooperation.

  • Future-Focused: We'll focus on building a workable future for your family, rather than dwelling on the past.

  • Strength-Based: We'll build on your family's existing strengths and resources.

  • Flexible: We'll create a plan that can adapt as your children grow and your family's needs change.