The Fourth of July is a holiday known for hot weather, cookouts, fireworks, and celebrating our country's birthday and the freedom it represents. Couples going through divorce during Independence Day are reminded of the untangling necessary when a marriage comes to an end, especially when children are involved. However, this holiday can actually serve as a powerful symbol for this transition. Choosing to pursue an amicable divorce during a season that celebrates independence

As we prepare to celebrate our nation’s independence, we are reminded of the sacrifices so many in the military make to protect our freedoms. Those who serve put both their lives and their marriages in peril. A study sponsored by the U.S. Department of Defense, found that long deployments from the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan have increased the risk of divorce. Most divorces are accompanied by varying stresses, both financial and emotional. The Connecticut Collaborative Divor

BRUCE FREEDMAN, PH.D. LICENSED PSYCHOLOGIST 3 Northwestern Drive Bloomfield, CT 06002 Tel: 860-242-3702 Fax: 860-243-3224 Email: brushrink@gmail.com Why collaborative divorce? As psychologists, we know that children grow up healthiest after their parents’ divorce if they are able to maintain good working relationships with both of their parents. In addition, their adjustment into adulthood fares best when their parents maintain civil, working relationships. Adversarial divorc

Abby Cole, Ph.D. As the weather finally warms up, we all start thinking about vacation plans. For many parents, summer vacation with the kids is a favorite part of family life. But things get complicated with you are a divorced or separated family! Before you race to buy airplane tickets or sign your children up for summer camps, take the time to consider and discuss plans with your co-parent. Here are some questions every parent should ask before summer is upon us: 1. What t

Originally based on an article by Loren Soeiro, Ph.D., ABPP, published by Psychology Today. Contributed and adapted for We Mediate by Wendy Habelow, Ph.D. Difficult conversations are part of every relationship. Whether you are talking with a spouse, co-parent, child, friend, family member, or colleague, there are times when something important needs to be said and it can feel uncomfortable, uncertain, or emotionally loaded. You may be preparing to talk through a conflict in y

As you separate and move into two separate homes, your relationship will move from parenting your children together in one household to co-parenting your children across two homes. This is a significant transition for everyone in the family. Co-parenting is not about being perfect. It is about continuing to show your children that the two most important adults in their lives are committed to their well-being. Here are some things that are important to remember as you move int

Taking a Break: Navigating School Vacations While Going Through a Divorce By Pamela M. Magnano Many families look forward to school vacations for a time when the family can get away and enjoy activities together. Whether it be skiing in the winter or a trip to see foliage in the fall, time off from school for children is limited and is something that can cause conflict during a divorce. Often times, couples who begin the litigation process do not think of the