On a recent episode of the CBS sitcom, Mike and Molly, Mike is caught in the middle between his divorced parents when making up the guest list for his wedding. One of the worst legacies divorcing couples can leave for their children is the feeling of being pulled apart. Check it out: Mike's stuck in the Middle
Since I changed my practice and started talking to people about considering the impact of a nasty divorce on children, I have been amazed at how many adults remember when they were told their parents were divorcing. Many remember where they were, who was around and if the announcement meant a family event was cancelled. Most often, the news was delivered in the context of an argument between their Mom and Dad. They either overheard it or it was revealed in anger. One of the professionals I believe is critical in the divorce process is the Coach. One type of coach is a child specialist.
A child specialist will often meet with parents in an effort to better understand their concerns about their child(ren) and about co-parenting with the other parent. A child specialist also meets with children as a way to gauge their responses and needs as part of the divorce process.
A Child Specialist can:
- Provide children with the opportunity to express their feelings and concerns and regarding the divorce.
- Offer parents guidance, education, and assistance in facilitating parenting decisions
- Help parents recognize and address the emotional and psychological states and needs of children during this difficult time.
- Assist in constructing a developmentally-appropriate and child-centered parenting plan.
No parent wants to intentionally cause angst for their child. Don't let your child be the one stuck in the middle.
