Separation is a relational action that is made by a spouse or spouses to live apart, intending to ‘give space’ to a relationship or, ultimately, end the relationship. Divorce is the legal end of a marriage. Both separation and divorce carry a set of defined expectations to meet the criteria for a legal separation and divorce. However, they also carry emotional, financial, physical and spiritual consequences that further challenge the process of separation/divorce.
Shifting from a relationship to independence can be immensely painful, infringing on social interactions, parenting time, and personal goals as a result of this transition. There are elements of grief and loss that are associated with the process that further challenge the transition. By utilizing the therapeutic support of a trained counsellor, the processing of a separation and/or divorce can be eased, resulting in a more empowered and hopeful future for each individual or family that participates in the work.
The Impact
Couples and families who have gone through the separation or divorce process understand how emotionally difficult the transition is. Aside from the logistical requirements of separating living spaces, financial arrangements, friends, children and/or pets, the emotional aspects of this process can be devastating. Therapy will provide you with the necessary support to provide you with a specifically trained, objective perspective that will enable you to understand the conflicting emotions experienced and reframe thought patterns.
Why we will divorce
Humans need connection and thrive when we have access to supportive, intimate partners in all aspects of our needs. The truth is that much of our needs may never be supported as we are not accountable to them individually. Through therapeutic support, we can clarify these needs and create positive future relationships that will feel fulfilled and safe.
Can Be Long Lasting
And can affect your ability to successfully move into a new relationship. Taking the time to fully heal after the transition is difficult, but just like loss & grief, healing is not a linear process. There are good days and bad days and understanding that you might take five steps forward one day and then retreat two steps the next day will give you permission to heal at your own pace.
Divorce and Separation
Divorce Rates in Canada
As a whole, married Canadians have become older during this period, partly due to the general population aging in Canada. Also, younger generations are increasingly opting for common-law unions instead of getting married. Age-specific divorce rates tend to be relatively lower for older adults: 4.2 per 1,000 for those ages 50 and older in 2020, compared with 7.7 per 1,000 among those under age 50. With older adults accounting for a growing share of the married population as younger people choose common-law, these factors converge to push down the divorce rate. Courtesy Vanier Institute.
We offer complementary 15-minute consultations to support you.
This consultation session will enable our practitioners to understand your needs and ensure we are an ideal fit for you. Much like dating, we want to make certain a ‘connection’ with your practitioner is created and encourage all prospective clients to have a free consultation prior to booking an entire session.