FIND A PROFESSIONAL

What to Consider When Seeking Professional Help

Please note: These brief descriptions are intended to help you make an informed choice. We encourage you to inquire about a professional’s experience, background, and scope of their practice to ensure they are a fit for your needs.

Lawyer
Consider working with a family lawyer for advice and guidance about the legal aspects of divorce while keeping the focus on your children and making skillful choices.

Mediator
Mediators typically come from legal or mental health backgrounds, though some have other training or expertise. All should have specific training in family mediation.

Mediation is a process designed to empower parents to resolve disputes collaboratively. A mediator serves as a neutral professional and does not provide legal advice. Many family courts require mediation before litigation. However, you can choose to engage in mediation at any point in the process.

Mental Health Professional
This category includes a broad range of professionals with advanced training in mental health services. They may serve as individual or couples therapists, co-parenting counselors, discernment counselors, divorce coaches, mediators, child specialists, or parent coordinators. If your issues are related to grief, emotional aspects of divorce, co-parenting support, or support for your children, seek a mental health professional.

Coach
Divorce coaches can offer a wide range of support. Many have a mental health background, but not all. Look for a coach if you need someone to help you take action and provide child-centered strategies during your divorce process. Be sure to inquire about their experience and specialties to ensure they are a good fit for your situation and needs.

Financial Professional or (CDFA)
A Financial Professional, also known as a Certified Divorce Financial Analyst (CDFA), assists separating couples in crafting equitable settlements. They possess expertise in tax law, asset distribution, and short—and long-term financial planning. CDFAs often collaborate with lawyers throughout the legal process.

CDFAs must meet the standards set by the Institute for Divorce Financial Analysts (IDFA).

Parent Coordinator (PC)
Parent Coordinators (PCs) help co-parents resolve disputes without litigation, manage differences, enhance communication skills, and prioritize children’s best interests. PCs can have a legal, mental health, or mediation background, and their roles vary by state. They are often court-ordered in high-conflict cases where parents struggle to agree, communicate, or work collaboratively.