Divorce is often devastating, especially when one or both parties behave in ways not expected by their partner. Whether your marital conflict has reached the point of no return, or still has a chance of being resolved, couples therapy can help guide you through the road ahead.
Before divorce
Whether you are considering divorce or if you and your partner are struggling to decide whether your differences are reconcilable, sex or marriage therapy can help you move forward.
The aftermath of divorce can affect your entire family and result in painful emotional and financial consequences. There are many factors to consider, but it’s important to work through the issues instead of avoiding them, or existing in a prolonged “purgatory” that prevents both people from progressing.
Facing conversations we want to avoid are exactly what marriage therapy is made for. The good news is, your marriage might be salvageable! Broken trust can be restored, rifts can be mended, and emotional barriers can come down if both people are willing to do some work.
An unbiased mediator such as a marriage counselor can help clarify each person’s needs so that you can make life-altering decisions without being bogged down by the “blame game.”
During divorce
Divorce is usually messy. One commonly hears about “couples therapy” or “marriage counseling” but “divorce therapy” could be a category all its own.
Having emotional support from a licensed therapist can be as useful as hiring a lawyer — at the very least it allows the meetings with attorneys to focus on legal matters without distracting “drama” getting in the way.
Being overwhelmed by emotions only complicates divorce proceedings. Therapy can help you process you and your partner’s issues and help you maintain respect for each other during this difficult transition.
After divorce
Regardless of the tone a couple’s divorce takes, marriage counseling can be a valuable tool in helping each party survive in one piece.
Continuing individual therapy after your divorce is finalized will help you deal with the sadness, anger, and frustration both parties usually experience, whether they wanted the divorce or not. With after-divorce therapy, these emotions are less likely to derail your next relationship.
Counseling will also give you a safe space to vent these emotions if you fear your friends and family are losing patience with your problems.
Self-care is critical when you are making a big life change, and with the help of a therapist you can put yourself back together, fall in love with yourself again, and feel ready to pursue a new relationship–or a new life’s calling or passion!