When a divorcing couple has children, it is easy for the parents to get so caught up in their own negative emotions that they don’t focus on the needs of the children. As difficult as it might be, both parents need to set aside their own emotions and focus on the well-being of their children. An easy starting point is usually that most parents can agree that they love their children, even when … [Read more...] about What Is a Child Centered Divorce?
Co-Parenting vs. Parallel Parenting
Co-Parenting—What does that mean? How can I co-parent with someone who has betrayed me? How do you co-parent after a divorce when we couldn’t parent well while we were married? I don’t even want to parent with him/her anymore! You’re getting divorced and your biggest worry is about your children. Chances are this is the one thing you and your spouse agree on. Here is what … [Read more...] about Co-Parenting vs. Parallel Parenting
Emotions in Divorce
There is no getting around the fact that divorce is a highly emotional process that people respond to in a variety of ways. Some adapt to the stress and changes in their life by taking care of themselves the best they can. Others look for ways to escape the emotional pain and anger through addictions like drugs, food, or work. Slow Down, Observe Your Emotions Couples do not need to start the … [Read more...] about Emotions in Divorce
Caught by the Coronavirus Crisis During Your Divorce?
How to manage COVID-19 stress on top of divorce stress Perhaps you have decided to divorce or are in the initial stages of separation. Or perhaps you have already separated, and you and your ex are sharing time with your children. Suddenly, you are blindsided by the pandemic. On top of all the stress of the divorce, now we have the stress of the quarantine. What should you expect and what … [Read more...] about Caught by the Coronavirus Crisis During Your Divorce?
Must We Say We Did Not Love? Honor the relationship that ended through a new story and rituals.
What is the story of your marriage and divorce? When speaking with your friends or family, what is the story you tell of your relationship? Are you talking mainly about the arguments or misdeeds, betrayals, disappointments, and losses? Do you focus on the negative experiences and overlook or even deny the positive experiences? Is it possible that you are defending yourself from your own … [Read more...] about Must We Say We Did Not Love? Honor the relationship that ended through a new story and rituals.
Is it Possible to Have a “Better Divorce?”
One of our Collaborative Divorce Marin County Professionals recently published an article in Psychology Today. A new approach can improve post-divorce life for the whole family. I want to tell you something important: I know what a bad divorce can be like for a child. My parents continued their warfare for 45 years, until Mom was no longer alive. My 95-year-old dad referred to my mom as … [Read more...] about Is it Possible to Have a “Better Divorce?”