When people think of divorce counseling, they assume it’s a way to keep the marriage from falling apart. But this description isn’t entirely accurate. Marriage counseling is aimed at preventing a divorce. On the other hand, divorce counseling is designed primarily to prepare couples for divorce and life after it. It’s a type of therapy that will help you process complex emotions about the dissolution of your marriage and related issues.
Like marriage, a divorce is also a life-changing event. Divorce can also be a harrowing experience for everyone involved. Regardless of how amicable it is, the extent of legal and emotional issues can be highly stressful and overwhelming. Here’s how a trained divorce counselor can help you gain invaluable advice and support through this painful and uncertain time:
Pre-Divorce Counseling. A divorce counselor will teach you and your spouse how to communicate effectively and behave civilly as you both try to address the physical, emotional, and financial legalities that generally go with a divorce. The therapist will guide you in identifying areas of confusion and conflict. They will also provide you with positive coping strategies to use once issues arise. A civil, healthy divorce is crucial in making the separation less traumatic for the children. The counselor will also help you and your spouse decide whether you truly want or need to split or if your marriage can actually be saved. Additionally, pre-divorce counseling is beneficial as it can help couples address any parenting issues related to divorce. Divorce counselors will provide strategies for telling your children about the impending separation. They will also give you tips on how you and your partner can prepare your kids in dealing with this shift in their lifestyle. They can give you tools and help create a parenting agreement that will work for everyone.
Post-Divorce Counseling. No matter what the reason was, the end of a long-running, committed relationship will cause disruption in your life. It will trigger deep-felt emotions, such as anger, grief, and stress. As soon as the divorce is finalized, it can even be daunting to wrap your mind around the fact that your marriage is over. Post-divorce counseling will guide you through the chaotic aftermath of the split. Your divorce counselor will focus on using various techniques and strategies. This way, you can accept reality as it is and reclaim your life. Many people who have been married for many years find it hard to figure out who they are outside of their marriage. A divorce counselor will guide you in re-discovering your identity. He or she will also help you in improving your self-esteem and embracing your new life. Post-divorce counseling will help you manage your emotions and deal with everyday life. The therapy will aid you in moving on as an individual and help your children cope with the divorce.
Divorce is a decision that’s never easy to make. There are often entrenched emotions involved. Also, you have to consider countless things since it will significantly impact your life and family moving forward. At the Comprehensive Counseling Services, LLC, we can help you work through the process and start over. Call our office now in Tallahassee, Florida, to schedule an appointment.