Collaborative divorce requires the commitment of both spouses. They agree to work with one another instead of employing an adversarial approach to divorce proceedings. Successful collaborative divorces result in uncontested filings.
However, the intense emotions that people experience during divorce can make it difficult to work cooperatively with a spouse. Those aspiring to collaborate rather than litigate may benefit from counseling services before and during the collaborative divorce process.
How can outside therapeutic services facilitate collaborative divorce?
1. Teaching peaceful communication
Calm and effective communication can be a challenge during emotional times. Therapists and counselors help teach their clients coping skills, including communication skills. Learning about peaceful communication can help spouses navigate emotional disagreements during divorce negotiations. Calm communication is especially important for those using mediation to resolve divorce disagreements.
2. Providing space to vent
Collaborative divorce requires cooperation, so people generally cannot share their intense negative emotions with their spouses. They also need to avoid sharing too much online or with their children. Working with a counselor provides an opportunity to work through intense negative emotions in a confidential environment.
3. Facilitating healing
Collaborative divorce can be a healing process. Working together can improve the dynamic between spouses, which can be especially beneficial if they need to co-parent after the divorce. That, combined with attending counseling at the same time, provides an opportunity to heal.
Pursuing a cooperative divorce can have a variety of benefits, including a faster emotional recovery. People who approach the collaborative divorce process and divorce mediation with a focus on healing and rebuilding their lives may find it easier to work with their spouses to find a resolution to their settlement-related disputes.