Going through a divorce is one of the most life-altering events a person can experience. As your case moves forward, you will probably have an array of challenging and painful emotions. Having someone there to help guide you through the divorce process can be extremely helpful and comforting. Your divorce attorney helps you navigate the legal aspects of your case. If you want or need additional support, consider utilizing the services of a divorce coach.
What is a Divorce Coach?
According to the American Bar Association, “[d]ivorce coaching is a flexible, goal-oriented process designed to support, motivate, and guide people going through divorce to help them make the best possible decisions for their future, based on their particular interests, needs, and concerns.” A divorce coach is a person who provides assistance and guidance for a person going through their divorce. These coaches typically have professional backgrounds and offer services aimed at supporting their clients throughout their cases. Depending on your needs, you may want to work with a divorce coach who is a mental health practitioner or one that does financial planning. You can also have a divorce coach who is a Mediator or an attorney.
What is the Difference Between a Divorce Coach and a Divorce Attorney?
Your divorce attorney’s role is to represent your interests and advocate for you throughout your case. When you and your attorney evaluate your case and discuss your options, you will be doing so from a legal standpoint rather than an emotional one. However, making decisions during divorce can be complicated, especially when emotions are running high. A divorce coach’s role will be to help you navigate your thoughts and feelings so you can make choices that serve your best interests. The coach’s purpose is to be there as a sounding board for you and to offer you guidance and feedback throughout the process. The divorce coach’s services are designed to support you and work in conjunction with those of your divorce attorney.
Do I Need a Divorce Coach?
Everyone is different, and needs can vary during divorce. Therefore, the question of whether or not you need a divorce coach is an individual one. First and foremost, you should be working with an experienced Wisconsin divorce attorney who can help you evaluate your case and understand your options. You may also benefit from having a divorce coach to assist you in determining how you feel and which choices will best serve you, your family, and your life. There is also the option of using the Collaborative Divorce process. During a Collaborative Divorce, multiple professionals work together in a low conflict setting to help the parties clarify their issues and develop equitable solutions. You may also decide that it’s best for you to have a divorce coach while using the Collaborative Divorce model.
Deciding which divorce professionals to use during your case can be overwhelming. The best way to determine what you need is by consulting with an experienced Wisconsin divorce attorney. Your attorney can explain your options and help you connect with the right resources.
Karyn Youso of First Look Family Law is a trained Wisconsin attorney, Collaborative Attorney, and Mediator. She has extensive experience assisting clients before, during, and after Wisconsin divorce cases. She can help you understand your options and find the right resources. Call us today to set up a consultation so we can take a “first look” at your situation.
