Article updated April 2024
The role of a divorce coach
Navigating through the emotionally charged and legal process of divorce can be overwhelming and disorienting for anyone.
Often referred to as a living bereavement, it is a life-changing event and one of the most stressful periods many people will face in their lives, second only to the loss of a loved one.
This time of change brings uncertainty and confusion, and many legal, financial and emotional challenges and concerns, from untangling shared assets to addressing issues around children.
Central to managing the process is choosing the right divorce lawyer. Their focus is to help guide you through the divorce, and advise on the best route to take, be it lawyer negotiation, mediation or family court, to reach a settlement for your finances and make arrangements for any children.
However, whilst they deal with people going through relationship breakdown every day, they are not trained coaches or counsellors or equipped to deal with all the concerns people have.
This is where a divorce coach can help.
What is a divorce coach?
A divorce coach is a trained professional who specialises in providing guidance and support to people during divorce proceedings.
They bring a unique skill set that combines coaching skills, knowledge of the divorce process, and practical advice to clients to effectively cope with the emotional, legal, and logistical challenges of divorce.
Divorce coaches work with clients throughout the process, from those struggling to decide whether to divorce, to those reeling from a shock announcement that their marriage is over, to those struggling to move forward even though the divorce has been finalised.
They are also there to cheerlead, encourage and empower clients as they navigate the complexities of divorce. Their expertise can make a significant difference on those they work with.
Six ways a divorce coach can help
1. Emotional support and empowerment
One of the primary roles of a divorce coach is to provide emotional support and empower people during this challenging phase.
Divorce is often accompanied by intense emotions, such as grief, anger, confusion, and fear. A divorce coach helps clients navigate these emotions, providing a safe space to express their feelings and helping them develop coping strategies.
They offer a non-judgmental environment where individuals can explore their concerns, gain clarity, and regain control over their lives.
2. Practical guidance and education
A divorce coach does not offer legal advice – this role remains firmly with a family lawyer.
However, they can offer legal information and are well-versed in the legal and logistical aspects of divorce proceedings. They can help clients understand the legal processes, rights, and obligations involved, ensuring they make informed decisions.
From explaining legal jargon to guiding clients through paperwork, a divorce coach acts as a knowledgeable ally, simplifying complex information and ensuring individuals are aware of their options.
By demystifying the legal intricacies, they empower clients to actively participate in the decision-making process and work effectively with their legal team.
3. Save time and money
A divorce coach can help clients streamline the process of divorce by sharing resources and tools to manage it better, ultimately reducing a lawyer’s chargeable time.
A coach can help a client prepare questions for the first call, run through the complex paperwork, and help them collate and present their financial information in an organised format.
They can pick up the emotionally charged conversations, which they are trained to manage, and help dial down the anxiety and stress, so that clients can focus on the legal process with their lawyer and make decisions from a clearer and more rational place.
4. Co-parenting and communication
For couples with children, navigating co-parenting dynamics can be exceptionally challenging.
A divorce coach plays a crucial role in assisting parents in developing effective co-parenting strategies that prioritise the well-being of the children.
They facilitate communication and help parents establish a framework for respectful and constructive interaction, reducing conflict and minimising the impact on children.
By promoting open dialogue and facilitating problem-solving, a divorce coach enables parents to create a nurturing co-parenting environment that supports their children through divorce and beyond.
5. Building a support network
Divorce often leaves individuals feeling isolated and emotionally drained.
A divorce coach helps clients build a support network by connecting them with relevant resources, such as therapists, financial advisors, or support groups.
They help individuals identify their specific needs and connect them with the right professionals who can offer guidance in areas beyond the expertise of the divorce coach.
By expanding their support system, individuals going through divorce gain access to valuable resources that can help them in various aspects of their lives.
6. Focus on the future and post-divorce support
As we discussed, the role of a divorce coach extends beyond the divorce process itself.
Coaching is future focused and can help clients navigate life after divorce, helping rebuild their lives, connect with themselves again and create a new sense of identity.
Whether it involves setting goals, exploring new interests, or establishing a strong foundation for the future, a divorce coach helps clients find their footing and embrace the opportunities ahead.
The right team
Divorce is a life-changing event that poses significant emotional and practical challenges, and having the right team of people around you is key.
Ideally, this team includes a family lawyer, an independent financial advisor and a divorce coach, who serves as a crucial pillar of support, providing guidance, empowerment, and practical assistance throughout the journey.
By offering emotional support, clarifying legal processes, facilitating effective communication, and building support networks, divorce coaches empower people to navigate the complexities of divorce and emerge stronger and more resilient.
Find out more about Divorce Coaching at Stowe and search our Divorce Coach Directory.
