"dealingwithemotions" posts

Divorce is not a magic bullet: separation advice from a marital therapist, Andrew G. Marshall

In this episode, Kate is joined by Andrew G Marshall, a therapist and writer, to discuss the most common mistakes to avoid when separating.

Recipe for success: chef’s tips for moving on after divorce - The Divorce Podcast

In this episode, Kate is joined by Christopher Gillard, chef and writer, to discuss how cooking can help rebuild your life post-divorce.

Living together after separation: intimacy, boundaries and break-up sex

In this episode, I am joined by an award-winning author, Cate Campbell, to discuss intimacy, whether trial separations are a good idea, and boundaries while living together post-separation.

The mind-body connection, Pilates and divorce recovery with Psychotherapist Andrew Keefe

In this episode, Kate is joined by Andrew Keefe, a Psychodynamic Psychotherapist and Pilates Teacher, to discuss how Pilates can support you during divorce and aid your recovery afterward. Andrew shares the science of trauma, how the nervous system functions under stress and why Pilates is an effective tool to help with the emotional aftermath of a relationship breakdown.

What to do when your partner wants a divorce: 5 essential tips

It can be heartbreaking when your partner tells you they want to end a long-term relationship. Divorce and separation are loaded words, and in many cases hearing the dreaded “I want a divorce” from a partner is devastating and marks the beginning of a life-changing experience for both people involved.

Surviving cancer, traumatic separation and single-parent guilt with Emma Campbell

In this episode, Kate is joined by author and speaker Emma Campbell, better known to her Instagram followers as Limitless Em, to discuss her separation stories, cancer diagnosis and passion for running.

Support in unlikely places: Who really helps kids through parental separation? - The Divorce Podcast

In this episode, Kate is joined by the founder of Restored Lives Erik Castenskiold to discuss how to thrive as a child of separated parents, even as an adult.

How to deal with divorce as a man: Challenges and top tips

Divorce is one of life’s biggest upheavals. As a man, you may feel like your world has been turned upside down, leaving you to deal with emotional turmoil, financial instability and a loss of identity all at the same time.

‘Silent’ separation, staying for the kids and writing to heal

In this episode, Kate is joined by award-winning author Laura Pritchett to discuss how a lack of communication led to the end of her marriage – and how journalling and writing helped her understand the truth and ultimately move on.

Divorce and separation guidance for fathers

Going through a divorce or separation as a Dad can be a tough and complicated process.

Five arguments all couples need to have - The Divorce Podcast

In this episode, Kate is joined by therapist, author and former divorce lawyer Joanna Harrison to share expert tips on how to have a healthy argument in relationships, as parents and post-separation.

Emotional regulation, maturity and how to get your mojo back post-separation - The Divorce Podcast

In this episode, amicable co-founder Kate is joined by Life Coach Katie Lloyd to talk about emotional regulation, maturity and how to get your mojo back following a relationship breakdown.

How to help teens with anxiety when their parents are divorcing

It’s common for teens to struggle during parental separation. Here are eight strategies to improve your communication, boundaries and relationship at this tricky time.

Nine tips for planning a wedding with divorced parents

Weddings, like other special occasions, can test family relationships. But the addition of having divorced or separated parents can put extra pressure on you and your partner as the key decision-makers.

Would you host a divorce party? Breaking the stigma with Sonia Gupta - The Divorce Podcast

In this episode, amicable co-founder Kate is joined by Relationship & Divorce Coach Sonia Gupta to talk about her arranged marriage, separation story and why she joined a growing number of people hosting divorce celebration parties.

Should you tell your employer about your divorce or separation?

Deciding whether or not to tell your work about your divorce or separation is a personal choice and there’s no right or wrong answer.

Making your children heard during divorce and separation - The Divorce Podcast

In this episode, Kate is joined by Paul Richardson, an amicable Divorce Specialist, and Carlie Norris, an Accredited Family Mediator, to discuss how the voice of the child can be heard during the divorce and separation process.

Seven ‘new beginnings’ to embrace after divorce or separation

The end of your relationship marks an opportunity to take your life in new directions. From a new career to a new partner, we explore seven pivotal moments post-divorce.

Navigating the holidays without your children - The Divorce Podcast

In this episode, Kate is joined by amicable’s Divorce Specialists, Anthony Syder and Bec Jones, to share tips on coping with not being with your children.

Advice from The Breaking Dad and his new partner on blended families - The Divorce Podcast

In this episode, Kate is joined by parenting team, Dan and Rosie, to talk about blended families.

Guide to self-care during separation and divorce

The overwhelming nature of divorce can often mean that self-care and looking after your wellbeing is the first thing to go out the window. Leaving many people to feel drained and worn out.

Healing with a Divorce Doula - The Divorce Podcast

In this episode, Kate is joined by Farhana Hussain, the UK's first Divorce Doula, to discuss the healing journey post-divorce.

How to manage stress as a co-parent

Transitioning from a partner to a co-parenting role often comes with its own set of challenges, including heightened stress levels.

The three G's with Paul Roseby - The Divorce Podcast

In this episode, Kate is joined by Paul Roseby OBE to talk about his separation and divorce story.

Tips for managing your mental health during a divorce

Divorce is one of life’s most stressful events, and when mental health challenges are involved, the situation can become even more complex. Prioritising wellbeing, understanding how mental health can impact divorce, and seeking the right support can make a significant difference in how both you and your family manage the transition.

Neurodiversity, divorce and separation - The Divorce Podcast

In this episode, Kate is joined by Dr. Angharad Rudkin and Anthony Syder to talk about neurodiversity, divorce and separation.

How to untie the knot amicably - The Divorce Podcast

In this episode, Kate was joined by Joe & Kate Sharp, two amicable customers, to share their divorce story.

A therapist's guide to navigating trauma during relationships, breakups, and divorce - The Divorce Podcast

In this episode, Kate was joined by psychotherapist Lulu Sunnucks to explore trauma during relationships, separation and divorce.

Finding your voice through divorce

Fourteen years ago, my seemingly perfect life began to crumble. Every morning, I wiped away silent tears, battling the turmoil within. I felt trapped, unable to make my parents understand my pain. I juggled work and motherhood for over a decade while silently carrying an immense burden. My car became my haven, where I found the space to reflect. I realised I had to break free from this suffocating existence and pursue happiness.

Finding joy in relationships, separation and divorce with Ali Mortimer - The Divorce Podcast

In this episode, Kate is joined by Coach and Author Ali Mortimer to discuss navigating difficult moments in relationships and how finding joy can help in this journey.

Managing a divorce with neurodiversity

Going through a divorce can be an immense challenge, but going through it as a family where there is neurodiversity can add many additional layers of complexity.

The two Ds – death and divorce - The Divorce Podcast

In this episode, Kate is joined by the founder of Octopus Legacy, Sam Grice to discuss death and divorce.

Navigating the summer holidays if you’re thinking of separating

Navigating activities, organising childcare, and keeping your children preoccupied is no mean feat, and adding a separation on top can feel impossible.

Divorce stigma in South Asian communities

In Westernised sub-cultures, such as in the UK, divorce remains a taboo topic. However, more South Asians are speaking out about their experiences, creating a less stigmatised path for future generations.

Celebrating different family types with Lotte Jeffs - The Divorce Podcast

In this episode, Kate is joined by award-winning magazine writer Lotte Jeffs and amicable Divorce Specialist, Anthony Syder to discuss queer parenting and different family structures.

How to forgive after divorce with the founder of Self Space - The Divorce Podcast

In this episode, Kate is joined by Jodie Cariss, Founder of the online therapy platform Self Space to discuss the emotional journey of separation and the role of forgiveness in the healing process.

The emotional journey of divorce

The emotional journey of separation can be a long one, it can take place alongside other journeys such as bringing up children or getting on with work or travelling or whatever else is going on in life.

The role of grandparents in divorced and separated families - The Divorce Podcast

In this episode, Kate is joined by the Founder of the Bristol Grandparents Support Group, Jane Jackson, and amicable Divorce Specialist, Anthony Syder to discuss the role of grandparents during parental separation and divorce.

Do feelings of loneliness in a relationship lead to separation? - The Divorce Podcast

In this episode, Kate is joined by former family barrister turned therapist and author, Charlotte Friedman.

How to embrace single parenthood post-separation

Whatever your family set-up, whether you are doing it alone, have a bit of help or sharing the care, we're here to help on your separated parenting journey.

The role of friends and family in navigating divorce, separation and co-parenting

Separation and divorce is something that can be achieved amicably with the children’s best interests and our own mental health at heart...

What is co-dependency in relationships? with Mark Groves - The Divorce Podcast

In this episode, Kate was joined by Mark Groves, a Human Connection Specialist and founder of 'Create the Love', to discuss co-dependency in relationships, separation and divorce.

Managing your wellbeing during a divorce

In this blog, we will explore how the process of separation and divorce can affect mental health and why it's essential to prioritise open communication and ask for help if you are struggling.

My divorce story and co-parenting journey with Ella Kenion - The Divorce Podcast

In this episode, Kate was joined by Ella Kenion to talk about her experience of divorce and co-parenting.

The best moments from The Divorce Podcast

To celebrate this special occasion, we're taking a trip down memory lane and bringing you the absolute best bits from our most impactful and insightful episodes.

Boundaries and expectations in relationships and after divorce - The Divorce Podcast

In this episode, Kate was joined by Dr. Charlotte Fox Weber to talk about boundaries, relationships, and separation.

When help with divorce is the right option with Nichole Farrow - The Divorce Podcast

In this episode, Kate is joined by Relationship & Family Coach, Nichole Farrow to discuss professional help during a separation or divorce.

Christmas for single parents

Christmas can be a lot of fun. But it can be an emotional rollercoaster – and stressful at the best of times. And many single parents face added pressures around money and arrangements for the children.

Divorce, separation and co-parenting resources

Our tools and resources offer guidance and support for navigating this challenging time with compassion and understanding. From co-parenting tips to legal queries and emotional support, we've got you covered.

What is emotional freedom technique? with Liz Harrington - The Divorce Podcast

In this episode, Kate is joined by Liz Harrington to discuss EFT coaching and how it can help in the context of divorce or separation.

How to cope with divorce or separation

Separation is an emotional journey with legal and financial consequences. Struggling to cope with divorce or separation is a natural part of...

Rebuilding confidence after divorce with The Midlife Mentors - The Divorce Podcast

Kate is joined by The Midlife Mentors, Claire and James Davis, to discuss building self-confidence post-separation & divorce.

Exploring divorce in the workplace: support through separation - The Divorce Podcast

In this episode, Kate is joined by Mustafa Faruqi from Tesco, James Hayhurst, founder of The Positive Parenting Alliance and The Parents Promise and Jimi Odel from OneplusOne to discuss separation and the workplace.

Building confidence after divorce

Midlife often brings with it a unique set of challenges, but it also presents the perfect opportunity to reevaluate our lives, set new goals, and rediscover our true potential [...]

amicable's resources for separated parents over the summer

Look through some of these resources as they may help ease the process of adapting to your new life parenting apart.

How to help a friend or family member through a separation or divorce

When a friend or family member separates from their partner, it can be hard to know what to say or do. No separation is the same but [...]

Adjusting to a new lifestyle post-divorce

Is fear holding you back from leaving an unhealthy relationship? You’re not alone. Here are five tips to help you prepare if you’re planning on separating from your partner...

10 Tips for dating after divorce or separation

If you've recently separated from your partner, Valentine’s Day can be particularly unhelpful as the world is bombarded with romantic comedies, flowers and couples celebrating. Valentine’s Day can feel overwhelming, bringing into sharp contrast feelings of loss. If this is you, we’ve already written a blog to help you reframe how you feel about the day with our tips and advice which...

What to do when you become a stepparent

“The majority of stepparents, myself included, will tell you that they thought it would be so much easier to be a stepparent than it actually was.” We enter into the role naively thinking ‘How hard can it be?’. We love our partners and think the rest will follow. Sadly the reality is that it isn’t easy and we start doubting our ability to cope with the challenges of stepparenting. So how can you avoid the pitfalls and build a happy blended family together? Here are a few things that you should consider when you meet a new partner and one, or both of you, already have children.

How to forgive your ex during or after a divorce or separation

In this blog, we explore forgiveness. What it is, the pros and cons of forgiveness and why you might choose to forgive your partner during a divorce or separation.

Sharing a pet after a break-up with comedian Rosie Wilby

Sharing a pet, or ‘co-petting’ as we call it amicable, is a relatively new phenomenon. However, it’s something we are passionate about helping couples to navigate. It’s not for everyone, and of course, there are some occasions when one pet owner might be better placed to have sole care after separation than the other. You can informally decide how you plan on ‘co-petting’ or what happens to your pet after the separation between yourselves. Or we have a ‘co-petting agreement service’ which helps you to document your pet arrangements post-separation or divorce. We’ve written this blog with the help and guidance of comedian, Rosie Wilby

What does a Divorce Coach do and how can they help with your divorce?

The truth is, most people don’t get divorced very often, and it’s pretty rare that you will continue living the same lifestyle when you separate. So to fore-see all the things you’ll have to sort out and navigate is tough. It is a vulnerable and worrying time. This is where a Divorce Coach comes in. This is a very important time in your life. Succeeding in an amicable separation is crucial to the emotional recovery for both parties and, of course, any children. How you set the tone now could affect your family for a long time to come.

Mother’s Day as a single parent

Mother’s Day as a single parent, or any celebration day for that matter, can feel especially tricky when you’re separating or divorcing. Our tips for Mother’s Day will smooth the way and help you celebrate. […]

How to help a friend going through a divorce with Verity Glasgow - The Divorce Podcast

In this episode Kate was joined by Verity Glasgow, CEO of the relationship charity, Oneplusone to discuss friends and family in the context of relationship breakdown.

Healing from divorce and the healing curve

Divorce is commonly accepted now as one of the most traumatic experiences you may have in life. I know it certainly was for me. The first few months after my separation were incredibly challenging – I lost two stone in six weeks, stopped sleeping properly, couldn’t really eat, and spent many hours ruminating on what I could have done differently to avoid this.

amicable’s guide to children’s mental health and divorce

Divorce and separation are not only difficult for the couple but also for their children as well. As with any loss (in this case, changes to the family unit), divorce and separation can impact children’s mental health. However, there are ways to help your children cope with this and of course, ways to spot early signs if they are not coping.

What is divorce anxiety?

Divorce anxiety is the term given to the intense feelings of worry experienced when going through a divorce. As with any anxiety, it will include negative thoughts about the future, and an unpleasant physiological response.

Separating at Christmas – advice for people going through a breakup on Christmas and the festive season

When I first started researching heartbreak for my comedy writing and performance a decade ago, I once stumbled upon a graph illustrating the times of the year when breakups, according to Facebook status updates, typically peaked. Christmas Day itself was deemed ‘too cruel’ and was a slower time for getting dumped. However [...]

Divorce party

A divorce party is something that some people choose to do to mark the end of a very difficult and emotionally draining process, and for other’s, it’s simply an opportunity to celebrate the start of their new chapter with family and friends. Whilst it’s

How 'Black Box Thinking' can help you through a separation

Everybody wants to be successful. It’s no surprise then, that business-related self-help books are...well, big business. You don’t have to look far to find a list of motivational titles that claim they’ll help you ‘reach your potential’, ‘breakthrough the glass ceiling’ and ‘shoot for the moon’.

The unexpected joys of breakups

One bright autumn morning during the ambiguously gradual unravelling of my five-year relationship, I strolled briskly from our rented house on Brixton Hill across Brockwell Park to the Lido. I was looking forward to the mindful back and forth of swimming bracing lengths.

Five mindfulness activities to help you during divorce and separation

Divorce and separation are widely accepted as being one of the most emotionally traumatic things a person can go through. At amicable, we understand that it’s the emotional journey of the divorce that can be, not only the hardest part but also the most difficult element to cope with...

Tips to help you co-parent your teenager

Divorce is challenging for all children regardless of their age however, it can be particularly challenging for teenagers. Teenagers are already going through an enormous period of change in their lives and having two parents who are at odds with one another can exacerbate this.

How to help younger children deal with separation

My ex and I separated when our baby boy was two. In the eighteen months that have passed since the day she moved out of the family home, we have worked hard to heal and grow, both as a family and as individuals. I am happy to report that our current set-up, as co-parents who live on adjacent streets and share the responsibility and cost for our child 50/50, works well.

How to live together during a divorce or separation

We’re now seeing more and more couples who are separated or divorced but living together ‘under one roof’. Often, this is because of circumstances that cannot be controlled or changed quickly.

How to cope with separation

There are things you can do that’ll help you cope with separation in order to find a path forward towards a life that not only do you want, but you deserve.

How do you deal with frustration during divorce or separation

Here are some tips on how to deal with divorce frustration as you separate.

10 tips for a peaceful first Christmas after separation

Christmas can be a difficult time if you’ve recently separated. Memories of happier times together during the festive season might feel overwhelming, and it may be hard to picture having a joyful Christmas this year.

Is it over? Should I leave?

Deciding a relationship is over and deciding to leave are two very different things: leaving doesn’t always follow the decision that the relationship is over...

Why can’t we agree?

Unhelpful thinking patterns – Why can’t we agree? Perhaps you and your partner have started to make decisions about the future apart now you have decided to separate. Perhaps you’re negotiating or mediating and have […]

Five questions to ask yourself before you separate or divorce

Being in the right emotional place is fundamental to having an amicable divorce. Find out if you’re ready to separate with our five simple, ‘ready for change’ questions. Perhaps the idea of ever being ready […]

Divorce goals - what are they and why should you have them?

Why create goals? Focusing on the future rather than dwelling on the past leads to a more positive mindset for everyone during separation. There are lots of decisions that need to be made when you […]

What is a parenting plan?

If you’re divorcing with kids, prioritizing their needs during your divorce will help them thrive in the future. A good way to minimise the impact on children is to create a parenting plan.

Are you sure it’s over? How to Brexit amicably

A lot of commentators have compared Brexit to a divorce, albeit a very complex one. We at amicable know that when you divorce, especially if you have children, the way you approach it and the […]

Guest blogger Alexa’s thoughts on co-parenting with the worst kind of ex: The narcissist

At amicable, our mission is help separating parents divorce with minimal conflict and work together for the sake of their co-parenting relationship or sanity (or both!)… but sometimes that’s just not possible. Our guest blogger Alexa shares her thoughts […]

Tips on how to get a divorce if Christmas was the final straw

In this blog, we set out how to get divorced amicably if Christmas has been the straw that’s broken the camel’s back. My own divorce became a reality at Christmas, five years ago, so I […]

What to do with your wedding rings when your divorce is official

So you’ve decided to divorce, the Final order (previously called the decree absolute) has arrived but what do you do with your wedding rings now that your divorce is official? Sell them You might want to clear out everything to do […]

Six questions to ask yourself before reconciling with your ex

Working out if a relationship is completely over versus going through a bad patch can be a difficult thing. Relationship breakdown is a process after-all – but not a linear one. It often involves a […]

How does divorce affect mental health?

Divorce or separation is an emotional journey with legal and financial consequences. Whilst the legal and financial processes are usually well considered, the emotional journey is often neglected, including considering how your separation will affect your own mental health.

Who keeps the cat once you're legally separated?

In the UK, almost half of all households have pets, with the pet population at around 38 million.* That’s a lot of furry friends. And with so many of us owning animals, around 57% of […]

How to rebuild your life after a divorce - helpful guide & tips

Regardless of whose decision it was to divorce, the end of a marriage can bring about a rollercoaster of unexpected feelings of shame, self-doubt, fear, and insecurity. You might worry that you’ll never be happy […]

The divorce survival guide to Valentine’s Day

Here it comes again, Valentine’s Day; the day when the whole world seems to be loved up and happy. A weather girl will propose live on air, flowers will double in price and restaurants will […]

How can style boost your confidence during divorce

Jacynth Bassett, founder of The Bias Cut shares her tips on using style to boost your confidence during or post-divorce. As a mother going through a divorce, a top priority is to be a solid […]

How to tell your friends and family you’re getting divorced

Telling friends and family you’re getting divorced for most people, is a frightening prospect. Being worried about people’s reactions is completely normal and totally understandable. Being prepared for tricky questions and negative reactions can make […]

Read this before you send that text to your ex

The journey through a divorce or separation brings a range of emotions from shock, fear, anger relief and eventual acceptance. Combine the early emotions of anger and fear with the need to communicate and sort […]

Five divorce negotiation tips for your divorce settlement

If you’re struggling with your divorce negotiations, we’ve provided our top negotiation tips below to help you settle your divorce yourselves. We’ve also included some things to watch out for that might mean you’re better off getting some negotiation support from one of our Divorce Specialists. […]

Grayson Perry’s new Channel 4 documentary and how to get involved

amicable is working with Channel4 on a ground-breaking new documentary series with Turner Prize-winning artist Grayson Perry. Grayson would like to speak to couples in the process of establishing new lives after a separation, with […]

Using unreasonable behavior as the reason for divorce? Write a statement that will allow you to remain amicable

Are you using ‘unreasonable behaviour’ as the reason to divorce? This blog will give you some information and tips that’ll help you to remain amicable with your ex. However, before we jump in, it’s worth […]