One of the greatest mysteries in life is knowing when something has reached its end. Oftentimes these endings can be hard, stressful, or sad. Many times, they are necessary. Although an end can be painful, it can also lead to better things.
That doesn’t make it any easier in the moment though. A divorce is one of those endings that bring with it a whirlwind of emotions and logistic issues. All of the decisions and emotional turmoil can feel overwhelming, and rightfully so! Having children can complicate the problem even more. But you don’t have to face these problems alone. Thriveworks Decatur can be that steady hand throughout this experience and walk beside you until the storm calms.
What Is Divorce Counseling?
Every divorce is completely unique, and so will every counseling session with a Thriveworks Decatur counselor. Our focus will be on your goals. (But don’t worry, we can help you articulate these!) However, there is usually three stages of divorce counseling, and some people find more of a need for professional support in one are or the other.
First, there is the personal and emotional battles you may be fighting. Depression, anxiety, and other mental health concerns are common right before, during, and after a divorce. These are normal reactions to something as jarring as a divorce, and we can help you properly navigate them. Many people also find themselves struggling with grief as well. There is nothing wrong with grieving the end of something you may have once treasured. Our Decatur counselors understand that every day will bring a new barrage of confusing, painful emotions and questions. We are here for you through all of it!
Secondly, our counselors can be a great liaison as you and your partner sort through the logistics of a divorce. Sometimes a calm, cool presence is all that is needed for a divorce to go smoothly. Other times you may want to actively work on your communication skills. We are happy to help you with that as well.
Finally, there is the aftermath of a divorce. This can be a host of different things depending on your situation. Your lifestyle has probably completely changed, and you may find yourself doing things you didn’t have to before. It is a difficult shift that continues long after the official documents are signed. Our Thriveworks Decatur counselors want to make sure your sense of sureness and security is restored so you can live your happiest life!
Is Divorce Counseling Right for Me?
Not everyone needs divorce counseling when going through a divorce. Maybe they have a stellar support system through friends and family, or just have an easier time adjusting. That doesn’t mean that you have to do it alone. There’s nothing wrong with reaching out for a little extra support. You deserve the best mental and physical health, and sometimes a counselor can be the most effective avenue to getting there.
If you’re still on the fence about coming to divorce counseling, look at your life before the prospect of divorce came up, and look at it now. Obviously, it’ll be different, and probably not in all positive ways. But has there been significant impairment in areas of your life that shouldn’t have been severely changed? For example, some signs that might suggest divorce has taken too big of a toll include:
- The feeling of drowning under all the pressure, stress, or high emotions
- Reduced pleasure in activities you once enjoyed
- Changes in sleep patterns
- Unusual high levels of anger, depression, or anxiety
- Suicidal thoughts
- Withdrawal from social events and contact with friends/family
- Unusual eating habits (loss of appetite or uncontrollable eating)
- Inability or impairment of ability to perform basic or essential tasks
- The divorce process getting “stuck”, or the inability to effectively communicate with your partner.
These are just a few of the many signs that divorce has taken on a life of its own and is negatively affecting your life in ways it doesn’t have to. Thriveworks Decatur will be here for you no matter what.
What About the Kids?
If you are a parent going through a divorce, your child’s wellbeing is probably on the forefront of your mind. There are a lot of negative stereotypes around divorces that involve children. But research has shown that in many situations two good homes are better than one bad home. Yes, divorce will most likely be difficult on your child. But they can still thrive.
Thriveworks Decatur offers counseling for children and adolescents going through a divorce. It is a confusing time and our counselors strive to create a nonjudgmental space for them to process their emotions and progress forward. They may be feeling hurt, abandonment, or guilt. We understand that is not at all your intention as a parent, and always try to strengthen the parent-child relationship in whatever way we can.
Your child deserves all your love and attention, but with so much going on in a divorce, that can be hard to give. That is where a Thriveworks Decatur counselor can also step in and provide a needed support system for your child. At the end of the day, your relationship with your child doesn’t have to suffer. You can still have a loving, healthy relationship after a divorce.
What About Co-Parenting?
One of the biggest concerns after a divorce is learning how to co-parent. It is a difficult balance to learn! But it is entirely possible. After a divorce, relationships may already be strained, and learning a whole new style of parenting may not be easy. Thriveworks Decatur can work with both parents as you adjust to this new style. We can answer questions, coach you through it, and help you work through any issues that arise.
Co-parenting isn’t any less important than regular parenting. It can just take some time to learn and implement effectively. You are not a bad parent for needing some help co-parenting. Most do! Let us be your guide as we walk together towards a happier, healthier relationship.
Divorces are hard, there is no way around that fact. But they don’t have to be impossible. With a little help from Thriveworks Decatur, you and your family can still thrive after a divorce.
