“Divorce is not a legal issue; it’s a family issue.”
In addition to being a licensed clinical therapist, Paige Crawford is also a collaborative divorce coach and a child specialist in partnership with The Collaborative Divorce of Illinois group.
During a time of crisis or difficult change (such as divorce), we are all tempted to listen to advice meant to protect us from harm. Unfortunately, those voices often stem from positions of fear and hurt. When we are scared and in pain, and when many voices are giving us advise, it can be overwhelming and extremely difficult to stay grounded in our best intentions and to remain committed to a path that considers what is best for everyone involved.
What Is Collaborative Divorce, how is it different from Mediation, and why might it be a better choice if children are involved?
The primary difference between mediation and collaborative divorce lies in the depth of support and structure offered. Mediation involves a neutral third-party facilitating communication and guiding couples to work out their own agreements. While mediation can be effective for many couples, it often lacks the comprehensive support and legal representation present in collaborative divorce. Collaborative divorce, on the other hand, provides each parent with their own collaborative lawyer and a team of professionals, including mental health specialists and financial experts, who work together to address the various facets of the divorce process. This multidisciplinary approach ensures that couples have access to specialized support and guidance throughout the collaborative process.
For couples with children, collaborative divorce may offer distinct advantages over mediation due to its emphasis on the well-being of the children and the family unit. The involvement of mental health professionals and child specialists in collaborative divorce helps ensure that the children’s needs and emotional security are prioritized during the divorce proceedings. Collaborative divorce also encourages effective co-parenting strategies, tailored parenting plans, and open communication between parents, fostering a more supportive and child-focused environment. By addressing children’s needs comprehensively and promoting a cooperative and respectful post-divorce relationship, collaborative divorce can help mitigate the emotional impact of divorce on children and create a more stable and positive family dynamic moving forward.
Paige Crawford: Collaborative Law Fellow, Divorce Coach, and Child Specialist
Paige is a licensed clinical professional counselor with more than twenty-three years of experience in the counseling profession. She is also a trained mediator and divorce coach.
Her specialties include: psychodynamic individual therapy, trauma and PTSD, life transitions, parenting, spirituality, identity, and personal growth. LGBTQ+ positive.