Divorce is one of the most stressful, emotionally charged life events a person can experience. Yet, it’s also a time when you have to make financial decisions that can impact the rest of your life. If you have children, you’re making decisions that will affect their lives and well-being.
If you’re consumed by sadness, anger, fear and perhaps mentally and physically exhausted by all of the changes in your life, it can be difficult to make clear-headed decisions. On top of that, your attorney’s likely asking for a myriad of financial documents and other information. It can be overwhelming.
That’s where divorce coaches come in. They aren’t just for wealthy, famous people. Just about anyone can benefit from one. It’s essential to know just what their role is.
Divorce coaches don’t replace attorneys, financial advisors, accountants or therapists. They can help you better work with those other members of your team to provide them all the information they need to give you the best possible outcome. They can also help you better understand and manage your expectations around divorce. Your attorney can do this as well, but wouldn’t you rather have them spending their time on legal issues rather than talking you down from unrealistic expectations or building up your confidence to ask for what you deserve?
A divorce coach can:
- Discuss the various types of divorce before you begin the process.
- Provide an unbiased, nonjudgmental viewpoint – something even well-meaning family and friends often can’t do.
- Help you obtain and organize the documentation you need to provide your attorney.
- Discuss various custody options and parenting plan provisions.
- Help you work out a clear vision for what you want for your life after divorce.
A good divorce coach can help you drown out the noise, both from inside your own head and from outside extraneous voices (especially negative ones), so that you can proceed as efficiently and positively as possible through your divorce. Certified divorce coaches (CDCs) have a variety of different backgrounds and professional experiences. If you need help finding who fits your needs in your area, your family law attorney can likely provide some recommendations.
