What is a Divorce Coach?

How can a divorce coach help me?

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When you have been in a long-term relationship, particularly as a parent, managing the emotions and the practical arrangements surrounding divorce can be tough. You may be trying to work, while also keeping things stable for your children and wondering what the future holds. It can leave you feeling upset, angry and scared.

The support of a qualified family solicitor is essential as you navigate the financial settlement and the legal issues around divorce and child arrangements.  But increasingly our clients are drawing on the support of a divorce coach to help them through the more emotional aspects of the process.

What isa divorce coach?

A divorce coach is trained to support male and female clients at any stage of their divorce, in a supportive but impartial and non-judgmental way. Coaches work one to one with clients, either face to face or online. Coaching is an unregulated occupation, so anyone can call themselves a coach, so we recommend you look for a coach that is trained and qualified.

How can a coach help me when I’ve just separated?

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Coaching is your time to talk about whatever you are finding most challenging during your divorce.

The early stages of divorce can often be compared to a bereavement. Immediately after separation people often experience strong emotions. Shock, anger and confusion can all make day-to-day living very challenging, and sleeplessness makes everything harder to manage. While friends can be very supportive through this stage, many clients find it helpful to talk their feelings through with a coach. They appreciate having someone who will listen without letting their own emotions cloud their observations and without jumping to solutions that may not be appropriate or helpful. Talking through their fears and concerns can help regain emotional balance.

Clients can also struggle with the process of finding and talking to a solicitor about their divorce, which can feel like a major step. A coach can help clients gather their thoughts and prepare for the initial meeting.

Can a coach support me to make difficult decisions?

Later on, clients often find themselves needing to make big decisions. For example, they might have to decide whether they should stay in the marital home, or sell it and make a new start. Decisions may also have to be made about finances and access to children. At this point coaching can help them gain clarity on the pros and cons of each step. It can also help if negotiations with an ex-spouse get heated and emotional.

Does a coach offer legal or financial advice?

No a divorce coach isn’t legally or financially qualified and they shouldn’t give you advice in either of these areas. However, you may work with both a coach and a solicitor, using their different skills to support you.

A coach can help you before you go to your solicitor – for example if you are worried about the appointment and want someone to talk to about your concerns.

Once the financial and legal processes are over, clients can struggle to work out what comes next in their lives. Coaching can give clients the confidence to rebuild their lives and create a bright future.

How does coaching work?

Some divorce coaches may have a physical office but others will work with you online. You may be asked to book a series of sessions or be able to book as many sessions as you feel you need.

When do you recommend the use of a divorce coach?

At Family Law Group we are happy to refer clients to a divorce coach if they feel they need extra support during their divorce or after their proceedings are concluded.

Ask your solicitor for more details.

 Jenny Procter is an accredited divorce coach, working online to help clients get their sparkle back. Find out more at www.jennyprocterdivorcecoach.co.uk

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