Separating from a long-term partner can be one of the most difficult experiences, whether you were married or not. Unmarried separation often comes with its own set of emotional, financial, and social challenges. Therapy can be a powerful tool to help you navigate this time, providing support, guidance, and a safe space to heal.
If you’re feeling lost, overwhelmed, or unsure of your next steps, this guide will show you how therapy can help and provide resources to get started.
Why Therapy Is Important During Unmarried Separation
Unmarried separation may not involve legal divorce proceedings, but it’s still a significant life change. Here’s how therapy can help:
- Emotional Support:
A therapist can help you process your feelings of loss, grief, anger, or betrayal. Talking to a neutral person allows you to express your emotions without judgment. - Improving Communication:
If you’re co-parenting or dividing assets, a therapist can teach you healthy communication techniques to reduce conflict. - Rebuilding Confidence:
Therapy can help you rediscover your self-worth and move forward with clarity and purpose. - Managing Anxiety and Stress:
Whether it’s financial worries, housing issues, or the emotional toll, therapy can teach coping strategies to handle stress effectively. - Setting Boundaries:
If you’re struggling to let go or need to maintain a functional relationship with your ex, therapy can guide you in creating and maintaining healthy boundaries.
Types of Therapy to Consider
There are many kinds of therapy that can support you during an unmarried separation. Here are some popular options:
- Individual Therapy:
Focuses on your personal growth, healing, and emotional well-being. - Co-Parenting Counseling:
Helps separated parents work together to prioritize the well-being of their children. - Group Therapy:
Connect with others who are experiencing similar challenges and share coping strategies. - Online Therapy:
Platforms like BetterHelp and Talkspace offer affordable and flexible counseling from home.
How to Get Started with Therapy
Getting started can feel overwhelming, but these steps make it simple:
- Research Options:
Look for therapists specializing in relationship issues or separation. Use online directories like Therapist Finder or Open Path Collective for affordable options. - Ask for Recommendations:
Friends, family, or community groups can often recommend trusted therapists. - Try Online Therapy Services:
Platforms like BetterHelp or Talkspace are great for flexible, virtual counseling sessions.
(Affiliate Links: Click here or here to get started with online therapy.) - Consider Free or Low-Cost Resources:
Many community centers, religious organizations, and non-profits offer free or sliding-scale counseling.
Helpful Resources to Support Your Journey
Here are some books, websites, podcasts, and other tools to help you heal and move forward after an unmarried separation:
Books
- Getting Past Your Breakup by Susan J. Elliott
A step-by-step guide to recovering from a breakup and rebuilding your life.
Buy here on Amazon - Attached: The New Science of Adult Attachment by Amir Levine and Rachel Heller
Learn about attachment styles and how they affect your relationships.
Buy here on Amazon
Websites and Directories
- BetterHelp: Online therapy platform offering licensed therapists.
- Talkspace: Affordable, online counseling options.
- Psychology Today’s Therapist Directory: Find therapists near you.
- DivorceCare: Support groups for those going through separation and divorce.
Podcasts
- Breakup BOOST with Trina Leckie: Real talk about moving on after breakups.
- Dear Sugars: Tackles life’s most challenging relationships, including breakups.
Magazines and Blogs
- LifeBeyondSeparation: Our blog on life after separation.
- Psych Central: Articles on mental health and relationships.
Guides and Apps
- Headspace: Meditation app to help with stress and anxiety.
- Calm: Guided meditations and relaxation techniques.
- The Co-Parenting Handbook by Karen Bonnell: A guide to raising children together after separation.
Practical Tips for Healing Through Therapy
- Journal Your Progress: Write about your therapy sessions to reflect and track your healing.
- Join Support Groups: Connect with others who understand your experiences.
- Practice Self-Care: Take time for yourself through exercise, hobbies, or mindfulness.
- Be Patient: Healing takes time. Trust the process and give yourself grace.
