Effective Communication

Effective communication is very difficult when you are in conflict

Effective communication and negotiation are difficult skills at the best of times, but during separation and divorce it becomes even harder. Emotion and conflict may be at its highest between you during divorce and separation – but at that very time you are called on to negotiate decisions that are potentially life-changing for you, your ex and your children.

Marriage counselling before divorce

Getting marriage counselling before divorce tends to be most effective if you have not experienced a significant betrayal in your relationship. Many couples can heal their relationship with the help of a marriage counsellor. But, even if the relationship ultimately breaks down, the process of counselling can help both parties to understand each other’s position going in to the separation or divorce.

Be proactive – prepare for conflict

The best way to tackle conflict is to proactively prepare for it, rather than simply reacting to it. We help you to:

• Develop your own voice, rather than diminish it
• Navigate difficult conversations and situations in which conflict arises
• Understand your ‘hot buttons’ and conflict patterns, as well as those of the other person

Through this, you learn to shift from destructive reactions to constructive responses when you are in a challenging conversation.

A focus on problem-solving

Our approach is pragmatic, encouraging you to explore different ways to effectively communicate with your ex and clarifying the steps you need to take to resolve your conflict.

Practical Support

We can help you by reviewing and editing your written communications with your former partner (e.g. text and emails) and by helping you to establish good communication patterns with your ex.