Thanksgiving After Divorce: 5 Ways to Reclaim the Holiday (and Your Peace)
By Katie VandenBerg, CDC Certified Divorce Coach® | Focused Forward Quick Answer: How to Navigate Thanksgiving After Divorce. Navigating Thanksgiving after divorce requires a shift from passive endurance to active strategy. To reclaim the holiday, start by replacing painful old traditions with new “anti-traditions” (like ordering takeout or volunteering). Protect your mental health with a […]
Choosing the Hard Path: A Divorce Coach’s Perspective
“Life is hard—not because we’re doing it wrong, just because it’s hard.” – Glennon DoyleWhen my first marriage began to unravel, I kept asking myself, Why is this so hard? I thought I had chosen the right partner. He was intelligent, hardworking, frugal, and kind—just like me. We were both good people. Shouldn’t this have been enough? […]
3 Ways to Respond When Your Spouse Refuses Divorce
Quick Answer: Can I Divorce If My Spouse Says No? Yes. In Illinois, you do not need your spouse’s permission to divorce. Because Illinois is a “no-fault” state, you can file based on “irreconcilable differences” regardless of their agreement. If they contest it, you may simply need to prove you have lived separately and apart […]
Trail Guide to Divorcing with Dignity
Divorce can feel like navigating an uncharted wilderness—overwhelming, emotional, and full of unforeseen obstacles. But it doesn’t have to be that way. With the right tools and guidance, you can move through your divorce with clarity, confidence, and yes, dignity. That’s why I created Trail Guide to Navigating Your Divorce, a comprehensive course designed to be […]
Divorce Day: The best time to Find a Divorce coach
Every year, the first Monday after New Year’s Day is unofficially known as “Divorce Day.” It’s the day when family law attorneys and divorce professionals see a noticeable increase in inquiries and filings for divorce. For many, the holidays represent a final attempt to salvage a struggling marriage or simply a way to delay difficult conversations until […]
Top 10 Things to Consider When Starting a Trial Separation
A trial separation can be an emotionally charged step, but for many couples, it’s an opportunity to gain clarity about the future of their relationship. Whether you’re considering this path to reassess your marriage or prepare for the next chapter of your life after Divorce, it’s important to approach a Trial Separation with thoughtfulness, intention […]
10 crucial Questions to Ask Your Spouse Before Filing for Divorce
Navigating the decision to divorce is never easy. Whether you’re in a high-profile marriage, dealing with a high-conflict divorce, or feeling stuck in a relationship plagued by “roommate syndrome,” open and honest communication can provide clarity. As a divorce coach, I’ve guided many clients through these pivotal moments, helping them determine whether to move forward or seek solutions […]
The Ultimate Trial Separation Checklist: A Step-by-Step Guide
A trial separation can be a constructive step for couples seeking clarity about their relationship. However, without a clear plan, it can easily become a source of confusion and conflict. That’s why having a detailed checklist is so important. This guide will help you create a structure that ensures your trial separation is productive and […]
Why Hiring a Divorce Coach Can Change Your Life
Going through a divorce can be one of themost challenging experiences of your life. It’s a time filled with emotional upheaval, legal complexities, and profound personal changes. As a Certified Divorce Coach, I’ve seen firsthand how transformative it can be to have the right guidance during this pivotal period. Embracing the Moment: Finding Strength in Divorce […]
Top Six Fears that Stop People from Divorce
Divorce is one of the most challenging transitions a person can face, and it often brings on new fears and uncertainties. From protecting your reputation and children to safeguarding your finances and navigating legal complexities, the process can feel overwhelming. Many people also wrestle with emotional exhaustion and the daunting question of how to rebuild […]