World Mental Health Day is coming up and we know there’s almost nothing that takes more of a toll on mental health than a divorce. In fact, according to the Holmes and Rahe Stress Scale, a list of 43 stressful life events, divorce comes only second to the death of a spouse or child. Along with stress also comes a higher risk of depression and anxiety among those going through a divorce versus the general population. Read More

Being a stepparent is a gift, although often one that’s hard-earned. Let’s face it, you’re coming into an already established family dynamic and even with the best of intentions, there will be some challenges and adjustments. But it will certainly be worth it; and in honor of the recent National Stepfamily Day, we’d like to help you rise to the occasion. Check out these tips on making the best out of being a Read More

There’s no question how important grandparents can be in a child’s life. In fact, research has shown that closeness between grandparents and grandchildren can improve mental health and emotional well-being for both of you. This benefit, in particular, is helpful when the child’s parents are going through a divorce. This is why, in honor of Grandparent’s Day on September 13, we’re devoting this blog to understanding Read More

National Read a Book Day was this month, and while we love any day that encourages reading, we thought, “Why stop there?” especially when reading is so helpful as you learn, grow, heal and find inspiration during and after divorce. In fact, just the act of reading itself can relieve stress! So, we’re compiling all our book recommendations into one big list so you have plenty of material to choose from any day of the Read More

Divorce is unchartered waters for most people. But aside from the emotional complexity, the process itself can be just as challenging. What are the steps? What are the options? Does it have to involve lawyers and court appearances? In fact, often one of the most confusing aspects for soon-to-be exes is the role of mediation in the divorce process. Here’s what you need to know about court-ordered versus private Read More

Hooray, back to school is finally here! For parents, it’s a magical time where routine reappears, boredom complaints go silent and all-day snacking is no more! Your kids, on the other hand, likely aren’t quite as thrilled. And they may be a bit anxious about the co-parenting schedule changes the new school year brings, too. These back-to-school co-parenting tips can smooth the transition for everyone Read More

It’s a common, albeit sad, statistic that roughly half of all marriages end in divorce. But what’s surprising is that while the divorce rate has gone down or risen only slightly among younger age groups, for adults ages 50 and older it has nearly doubled in the past 25 years according to Pew Research Center. Here’s what you should know about “grey divorce” and how to navigate it. The Details on Grey Divorce A Read More

Summer is a time that’s supposed to be relaxed and easy; when we enjoy the sun, the warmth and the company of those we love. But if you’re just beginning to live with your one and only, it’s important to set some ground rules before things get too heated to handle. Check out these cohabitation tips to make summer living (together) even better. Cohabitation is More and More Common ‘Living together’ doesn’t carry the Read More

As a mediator and collaborative divorce practitioner, I’ve unfortunately seen more than my fair share of unhealthy relationships. Perhaps that’s why it always mystifies me that relationship advice more often focuses on negatives like spotting the red flags when simply the absence of them doesn’t necessarily mean you’ve found Mr./Ms. Right. So instead, let’s focus on positives like how to know if you are in a healthy Read More

If you’re recently divorced, Independence Day may take on an additional meaning, particularly if it was a contentious process. You may feel as if you’ve just won your own freedom. But that doesn’t mean the battles you’ve fought haven’t taken their toll or that you aren’t still healing. But to truly be free and ready to start over, you have to be healthy both mentally and physically. Here’s how. Eat Right – It Read More