When Parents Separate: Support Group for Kids

If you would prefer to pay by e-transfer and avoid Eventbrite fees, please email [email protected] or register through our website .

If you are planning on sending sessions to your insurance provider (therapy services provided by an MSW) please call or email us so that we can issue you appropriate receipts.

It is normal for your child to have difficulty during the separation and divorce process. They are going to be dealing with a lot of emotions and uncertainty about the future. It’s also important to recognize that you and your family will need some support to get through this transition.

This group program is designed for kids ages 7-11 whose parents are separating or divorcing. We are offering a safe and supportive space where your child will be able to talk about their specific challenges with a Registered Social Worker and other kids - just like them - who are going through the same transition.

During this 6-week group program, the topics each week build on one another to first create consciousness around their emotions (such as sadness, shame, anger etc.). Participants will be guided through various activities and discussions which allow them a safe and non-judgmental space to share their experiences, cultivate healthy connections with others and give them the opportunity to encourage and empower one another. We also leave plenty of room for kids to ask any questions they have about Separation and Divorce so we can talk through any fears or confusion they may have.

We will be drawing on insights and skills from Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavioural Therapy (DBT) to help teach participants to manage their difficult emotions and thoughts so they can cope with their current situation and future.

• My Family Is Changing: Parents already know how a Separation / Divorce affects them, but how is affecting your kids… right now? We’ll encourage participants to talk through how their family is changing and what that feels like for them.
• Let’s Talk About Divorce: In order to cope with Separation / Divorce, kids will need to talk about it. The more they talk about it with people they trust, the less alone, nervous or scared they will feel. We’ll answer all of their questions and address their concerns.
• Is It Okay to Feel Mad? Many kids will feel angry about what is happening to their family and wonder if it’s normal to feel mad that their parents are separating. The answer is YES! We will focus on how to cope with this anger.
• I’m Feeling Really Sad: Similarly, kids will obviously be sad about their parents separating. Here we will talk through those emotions and focus on how to cope with their sadness.
• My Two Homes: Kids will be transitioning to a new daily routine where there will be big changes in their schedule, how they live and not being able to see both parents at the same time. In this session will discuss transitions, moving houses, seeing parents separately and how to deal with the frustrations of these big changes in their life.
• When New People Join My Family: Sometimes, after parents get divorced, they may introduce new people they have met, or new people may join your family. We will talk about what kids may expect and how they might feel when this happens so they are prepared.

EVERY WEDNESDAY FOR 6 WEEKS: FROM 6 PM TO 7:30 PM

START DATE: Wednesday, October 16th, 2024

END DATE: Wednesday, November 20th, 2024

FORMAT: In-person at our Oakville office

MAXIMUM 10 PARTICIPANTS

*Each participant must first attend an individual intake session, billed at the cost of a regular therapist session of $170 CDN

• To secure a spot for one (1) participant in this group, a non-refundable deposit of $100.00 is required.
• This program should be covered by most insurance plans and individual receipts are provided for insurance purposes. We strongly recommend you check with your extended health coverage provider before registering.

, is a Registered Social Worker who specializes in working with those who are experiencing difficulties in their life and relationships as a result of anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, and / or separation and divorce.

, is a Registered Psychotherapist who specializes in working with those who want to build healthier relationships by focusing on conflict resolution and effective communication strategies.

Host or Publisher Peachey Counselling & Family Support