
A Creative Approach to Alternative Dispute Resolution
Separation and Divorce
The process of separation and divorce is one of the most stressful events a family can experience. The discord that often accompanies this significant family change can be deeply painful for all family members, but the process can be especially confusing for children as they often internalize conflict and discord between their parents, leaving them vulnerable to feeling responsible for the changes happening in their family.
A Focus on Problem-Solving
Children are best served when custody and parenting time issues are addressed thoughtfully and directly by the adults in their lives. Every family has problems and obstacles to navigate; during stressful times these problems can become amplified. In my experience, a realistic and compassionate approach can lead to viable solutions that empower families to move forward with a new structure. Research has found that children who grow up with two houses are indistinguishable from those who have one house unless there is one major factor present – conflict. The higher the level of conflict the greater the long-term impact on children’s well-being.
