HC Divorce Demystified: Difficult Conversations Around Divorce: Telling Spouse, Kids, Friends and Family with Zach Brittle & Laura Heck

In today’s episode, we are going to navigate through some of the most heart-wrenching conversations that come with the decision of divorce as we delve into the delicate art of communicating about divorce with your spouse and children, as well as your wider circle of family and friends.

Broaching the subject of divorce with your spouse is perhaps one of the most profound discussions you will ever have, and it requires a great deal of courage and sensitivity. We'll discuss how to express your feelings honestly while also respecting the emotions of your partner. 

Then, we will turn our focus to the children. Kids may experience a range of emotions from confusion to fear. We’ll equip you with compassionate strategies to help ensure that this transition impacts their well-being as gently as possible, keeping the lines of communication open and honest.

Lastly, we'll consider how to communicate your decision to friends and family. This part of the conversation can often bring unexpected reactions, from support to surprise, or even judgment. We'll talk about how to handle various responses and maintain your own emotional balance. It's important to remember that everyone processes this news differently, and while some might offer immediate support, others may need time to adjust to the new reality. Throughout it all, maintaining empathy and understanding for each other's feelings will be key. 

Joining me today are Zach and Laura, a team of marriage and relationship therapists!.  Zach Brittle is a couples therapist in Seattle, where he has been counseling and coaching couples for over a dozen years. He is a best-selling author of The Relationship Alphabet, and the Marriage Therapy Journal. Zach and Laura co-host Marriage Therapy Radio, a podcast where straight talking marriage therapists and their brilliant guests tackle the most common problems every couple experience. Laura Heck is a relationship expert, speaker, Certified Gottman Therapist, Sex Therapist and Master Trainer for The Gottman Seven Principles Program. She and Zach are teaching partners and cohosts of Marriage Therapy Radio. 

More ways to connect with Laura & Zach:

Journey Beyond Divorce Resources mentioned in this episode: