For children, the divorce of their parents may be their first real traumatic experience. It can be difficult to watch their parents fighting. Even if the adults in the family do their best to shield their children from their conflicts, divorce can alter a child’s sense of family.
They may struggle to adjust to the new living arrangements. Children worry about everything from potentially needing to explain their custody preferences in court to losing the love of one of their parents.
The reality is that parents going through a divorce also experience personal trauma. They may not be in the best situation to provide all of the support their children require. Counseling or therapy can be incredibly beneficial for the children in a family when their parents divorce.
Providing them with a safe space
Children may have a hard time expressing or unpacking their emotions with their parents. Even when the adults in the family try to be supportive, the children may worry about upsetting or alienating them. A counselor provides children with a mostly confidential space in which they can discuss their feelings without fear of harming their family relationships. Counselors can also teach them important coping skills that can help them heal from the stress and trauma the divorce generates.
Helping their parents regain equilibrium
Children can benefit not just from counseling services that provide them with support but also indirectly from counseling services extended to their parents. Co-parenting therapy can be incredibly useful for adults who have to share parental rights and responsibilities.
They can learn healthier communication tools or conflict resolution tactics. They can also discuss concerns about their differing parenting styles or the needs of their children in a safe and confidential environment. Even individual counseling for the parents to help them process and let go of their negative feelings can be beneficial. Parents who take the time to heal themselves can be more present for their children.
Getting the right support during a divorce that involves minor children is very important for the entire family. Counseling can be one of multiple tools that help take much of the stress and pain out of divorce.