Divorced…Or Thinking About It

1905605830It’s been a long time, but…

You’ve finally reached a breaking point. Deep down, you know something significant has to change for the marriage to continue.

But you keep second-guessing yourself, unable to stand up for yourself and demand real change.

One moment, you’re mentally reliving all the good times, worrying you’ll miss them terribly, and have this aching in your heart. The next, you recall the recent battles and how your spouse keeps criticizing and putting you down… to the point that your fists clench, and you resolve to leave.

“And it’s sad… because none of this was supposed to happen,” you think.

1072100930Stuck on a turbulent rollercoaster…

If you’re contemplating staying married, it’s hard to see how you’ll get past the hurt and express yourself honestly and openly.

It feels risky to be vulnerable and put your needs out there, and depending on how toxic the relationship has become, it may not be in your best interest to do so.

Couples therapy is typically not advised in cases of domestic abuse or when one partner is engaged in an extramarital affair and is unwilling to address it.

The success of couples therapy depends on both individuals assuming responsibility for their actions and behaviors.

Having a therapist can help you with your feelings, role-playing what to say so you don’t lash out against your will or give in too easily.

Even if you KNOW divorce is the answer…

The logistics of dismantling your financial, emotional, and pragmatic ties can be overwhelming. It’s not easy to unravel years of shared goals and dreams.

There are so many questions…

“Who’s going to keep the house?”

“How will we share the costs of raising the kids?”

“What will holidays and gatherings look like?”

It’s not long before emotion runs high and logic flies out the window.

When you’re running high on emotions and making important decisions, it’s crucial to have the support and sounding board of a therapist who can help you think through situations clearly and strategically.

And even if you’re the one who ends it…

You may be unprepared for the searing pain the separation might cause…

… like the pain that pierces your heart the first time you drop your kids off at your ex’s place…

… or the jolt of electricity that runs through your body after learning from a friend that your ex has started dating again or has moved in with their romantic partner.

Just when life seems to be getting easier, grief can hit you unexpectedly and leave you reeling.

Therapy can help you cope with the grief of divorce so you come out the other side feeling hopeful and excited.

“
The truth is that our finest moments are most likely to occur when we are feeling deeply uncomfortable, unhappy, or unfulfilled. For it is only in such moments, propelled by our discomfort, that we are likely to step out of our ruts and start searching for different ways or truer answers.

– M. Scott Peck

1081390328The aftermath of divorce can be devastating, BUT…

It can also be a tremendous opportunity for life-changing growth.

You have the chance to dig deep and discover what you want.

This can be a time to focus on yourself, heal old wounds, and experiment with new ways of being to improve your relationships moving forward – with others… and yourself.

Especially if you’ve been in an unhealthy marriage for a long time, it’s essential to rediscover yourself, determine what you want, and learn to express those things to others.

By gaining perspective and healing your grief and pain, you’ll be better equipped to have your needs met in all areas of your life.

1714097752I’ve got your back!

Through our work together, you’ll have a safe space and sounding board to navigate all the emotions you’re facing.

Let’s cut through the confusion, fear, and guilt so you can move through this painful time with clarity, resolve, and grace.

Moving through this period intentionally will open up exciting new possibilities for you!

Are you ready to take the next step? It’s time to pick up the phone now and call me for your free 20-minute consultation: (507) 200-0206.