Learning to Transition Smoothly, in Couples Counseling
Zeke and Sandra had been divorced for over one year but were still living with one another. Neither were too pleased with their living condition but financially, both had to restructure their lives to be able to make it on their own. They sat before a couples counselor, as they had many times before, but this time to navigate this trying transitional time.
Sandra was no longer in love with Zeke but was not thrilled about the fact that he was beginning to date again and the effect it would have on their two young children. While Sandra was dating too, Zeke wanted to introduce the children to his new significant other. He was serious about her and wanted at least an introduction if not some time spent together.
The counselor felt Sandra’s pain and worry. It is never an easy idea for a couple to expand their roles of parenting to possibly include someone else. Many fears arise. Will the children like them better than me? What is they brainwash my kids’ minds and force them to dislike me? What if they don’t care of my kids the way I do? What if they’re not safe?
Though both were not thrilled about the idea of others supervising their children, they also knew they were in serious need to move on. The children, ironically, both voiced a need for a change and a desire for the “anger to stop” as the youngest one put it.
Counseling continued for over a year, as both partners began dating more seriously. When Sandra and Zeke moved into separate living arrangements, many of the solutions naturally found themselves. Sandra has since met Zeke’s girlfriend and has developed more of a trust with her. The threat lessened as time passed.
Divorce is never simple. But there are times of relief as well, when the “anger stops” and two people become happier, separately, and can raise their children with a clearer mind and a peaceful heart.
Related Posts
- How Counseling can Aid Transition
- Learning to Let Go in Couples Counseling
- Learning to think for Yourself in Couples Counseling
- Learning to Have Fun Again through Couples Counseling
- Learning the Art of Communication with Couples Counseling
