The Benefits of Combining Divorce Mediation & Counseling
Divorce is often a difficult and emotional process for both parties involved. It can be a challenging time, rife with conflict and overwhelming emotions. That’s why many couples find it beneficial to combine divorce mediation with counseling. By doing so, they can gain the benefits of both processes as they work through one of the most challenging times of their lives. In this article, we’ll explore the benefits of combining divorce mediation and counseling.
Benefits of Divorce Mediation
Divorce mediation is a process where both parties work with a neutral third-party mediator to reach an agreement about the terms of the divorce. It is an alternative to going to court and can be less expensive than a traditional divorce. In mediation, couples work together to find solutions that are best for their unique situation. Here are some of the benefits of divorce mediation:
1. It’s Less Expensive
Mediation is usually less expensive than a traditional divorce. The cost of a divorce can rapidly skyrocket when you involve lawyers and go through the court system. Mediation is a much more cost-effective option.
2. It’s Less Adversarial
Mediation is a collaborative process; it’s all about finding solutions that work for both parties. Mediation is less about one winning and one losing and more about achieving a mutually beneficial outcome.
3. It’s Confidential
What is said in mediation stays in mediation. The discussions and agreements made during the mediation process are confidential, meaning that they cannot be used as evidence in court.
Benefits of Counseling
Counseling is a valuable tool for people going through a divorce, whether they are working with a mediator or not. Counseling can help individuals deal with the emotional side of divorce and develop practical coping strategies. Here are some of the benefits of counseling:
1. It Helps Manage Emotions
Divorce is an emotional process, and at times, emotions can run high. Counseling can help individuals learn to cope with their emotions and develop practical strategies for managing their feelings.
2. It Helps Improve Communication
Communication is key in any relationship, especially when you’re going through a divorce. Counseling can help individuals develop better communication skills, which can make the mediation process more effective.
3. It Helps with Healing and Closure
Divorce is a significant life event, and it can take time to come to terms with the end of a marriage. Counseling can help individuals work through their feelings and emotions and find closure.
Benefits of Combining Divorce Mediation and Counseling
By combining divorce mediation and counseling, couples can gain the benefits of both processes as they navigate their divorce. Here are some of the advantages of taking this approach:
1. It Helps Manage Emotions Through The Process
Divorce is a complex process with many emotions involved, even if the couple has reached an agreement. Combining mediation with counseling can provide individuals with the tools they need to manage their emotions and deal with the stress of a divorce.
2. It Promotes Collaborative Problem-Solving
Counseling can help individuals develop communication skills that can be invaluable during mediation. Better communication can lead to more significant progress and more collaborative problem-solving.
3. It Enables a Better Understanding of the Process
Mediation may be a new experience for some couples. Counseling can help individuals gain a better understanding of the mediation process, and what to expect. This can help alleviate any worries or misunderstandings they may have and help reduce stress.
4. It Encourages a More Positive Outcome
Combining divorce mediation with counseling helps individuals approach their divorce from a positive mindset. This can lead to more constructive discussions and a more positive outcome for both parties.
5. It Addresses Emotional and Practical Concerns
Divorce is both an emotional and practical process. Combining the two processes can ensure that both sides are well-equipped to handle both aspects of the divorce equally. Negotiations and staying level-headed are key during the mediation process.
Final Thoughts
Divorce can be a challenging time for both parties involved. Combining divorce mediation and counseling can be beneficial for couples going through the process. The benefits include lower costs, less adversarial and confidential discussions, better communication, management of emotions, and practical healing. By using both approaches, individuals can navigate the divorce process with more confidence and greater peace of mind. Ultimately, combining divorce mediation and counseling can promote a more healthy relationship after a separation, make the process less complicated, and allow all involved to move forward in the future.
Contact our team of professional therapists here at Cornell & Associates Marriage and Family Therapy to learn more about what we can do for you in your time of need.
