This article will discuss what happens in a divorce counselling program and why it is an important part of the divorce and separation process.
Divorce can be a difficult and emotional process, but it can also be an opportunity for new beginnings. In Australia, we have a relatively straightforward divorce process and a range of support services available to help people through this challenging time.
One of the support services available to those going through divorce is divorce counselling. These programs can help you navigate the divorce process, cope with the emotional toll of divorce, and adjust to your new life as a single person. Furthermore, it is a lifeline that can provide you the guidance you need to heal from your divorce and move on to a brighter future.
What Is a Divorce Counseling Program?
Divorce counselling programs in Australia aim to help couples resolve their problems and hopefully reconcile. However, divorce counselling is not required for all couples who want to file for divorce in Australia.
Couples who have been married for a shorter period are the only ones who must comply with this criterion. In Australia, a divorce application can only be made by a couple who has been married for less than two years (measured from the day of marriage to the date of the application for divorce) if they:
- Attend divorce counselling or relationship counseling with a licensed family therapist to talk about the possibility of reconciliation; or
- Have the court’s consent.
The cost of counselling can vary depending on the type of counselling and the duration of the counselling. Some counselling services may offer free or low-cost counselling to those who cannot afford it. Moreover, the cost of counselling can range from $50 to $200 per session.
Here are some counselling resources of the Australian states that might help:
What Happens During a Divorce Counseling Program?
Here is a step-by-step guide on what happens during a divorce counselling program in Australia:
1. Determine if counselling is required. Couples who have been married for less than two years (calculated from the day of marriage to the date of Application for Divorce) can only make a divorce application in Australia if they attend counselling with family or divorce counsellors and file a counselling certificate or get permission from the court to apply for a divorce without the certificate.
2. Attend counselling sessions. Couples attend counselling sessions with a family counsellor to try and resolve their problems, address negative emotions, and hopefully reconcile. Children and extended family members may also attend counselling sessions. If the couple has not attended counselling, they must explain so in an affidavit and give it to the divorce counsellor.
3. Discuss marital issues. During counselling sessions, couples discuss their marital issues and work through conflicts. Counselling can allow couples to discuss their feelings and learn how to communicate better.
4. Receive legal advice. Family law counsellors can provide legal advice to couples during counselling sessions.
5. Obtain a counseling certificate. If the couple decides to proceed with divorce, they will need to obtain a counselling certificate to file for divorce. To obtain a certificate, they will need to attend counselling.
Lastly, of the couple decides to divorce, divorce therapy can provide an effective avenue for couples to sort out their issues and devise a plan for all aspects of the process.
Importance of Divorce Counseling
You might be wondering why couples who intend to divorce must undergo divorce counselling. Generally, counselling can resolve marital issues. The program can help couples work through their problems and hopefully reconcile. Sometimes, a separated couple will attend counselling to try and resolve their issues and save their marriage.
Other reasons why divorce counselling is important are:
- It improves communication because it allows couples to discuss their feelings, work through conflicts, and learn how to communicate better. It also gives both partners a chance to express their thoughts and feelings in a safe and supportive environment.
- It allows the development of a greater understanding of why the divorce happened. This can help both partners move on and heal from the experience of the grieving process.
- It enhances coping skills. Many marriages improve in quality with couples who may have separated staying together and having an enhanced capacity to cope positively with their problems. Counselling can help individuals develop coping skills and strategies to deal with the emotional and practical challenges of divorce.
Other Resources for Divorcing Couples
There are also other resources that may help divorcing couples go through this difficult time. These may include:
- Therapy
- Divorce mediation
- Parent education programs
Counselling and therapeutic initiatives are not new and are the most traditional community-based services that divorcing families use.
These services are provided by a range of mental health professionals, including social workers, psychologists, pastoral counsellors, and psychiatrists. Counselling services for divorced families are available through social service agencies, voluntary organisations, church groups, and private practitioners.
Mediation and education programs, both relatively new, are seen as resources that can divert divorcing families out of court litigation to other methods of conflict resolution. Assessments fall into a grey area where legal and therapeutic services mesh and are often seen as the gateway to other legal and therapeutic solutions to family disputes.
Parent education programs are also available to help children cope with divorce. These programs strengthen the parent-child relationship and help children cope with the divorce in the short and long term.
Learn More About Divorce from Sydney Family Lawyers
If you are considering divorce, it is important to speak with a family lawyer who is experienced and knowledgeable in family law. Choosing the right divorce lawyer can make a big difference in the outcome of your case.
JB Solicitors are experts in family law. We can help you navigate the system and make sure that everything is in order. We can advocate for you and your children in all aspects of the divorce process, from child custody and child support to property division and alimony.
Divorce can be a very stressful and emotional time. Allow us to help reduce stress and conflict by managing the legal process and negotiating on your behalf.
Contact us today.
