Clients who go through divorce often have to rebuild their lives because, in some ways, divorce is the “death” of a relationship. In her practice, Doctor Angelina helps clients understand that divorce can be a traumatic experience, usually associated with feelings of betrayal and pain. In order to overcome this loss, she helps clients process their emotions (which include anger, shame, and blame), communicate their needs, establish healthy boundaries with their ex-partner, and rebuild their lives.

What are the stages of divorce?

According to an article written by Dr. C. Williamson, the divorce process follows predictable and understandable stages, each associated with different practical concerns, emotions, and typical behavior patterns. However, the divorce process usually begins in a seemingly calm, barely noticeable phase. Be alert or you’ll be surprised.

The most common explanation of divorce phases omits the importance of the first phase experienced by the person initiating the divorce.   However, the typical list of divorce phases focuses more on the emotional phases experienced by the person responding to their spouse’s request for a divorce.

So what are these stages?

1. Shock: The initial shock of the news, feelings of disbelief, numbness, and panic may be experienced in this stage. The person will search for a “why” answer and try to look for solutions to the problems that caused the split.
2. Denial: Avoidance of the discussion about the divorce. The person may invest heavily in trying to save the marriage.
3. Anger & Blaming: Frustrated and often cathartic outpouring of emotions. People might blame the spouse for past, present, and future mistakes.
4. Bargaining: Offer to do anything to make this right again.
5. Depression: Sadness associated with the realization of the inevitable break of the relationship.
6. Acceptance: Recognize new identity and set healthy boundaries.
7. Rebuilding: Acceptance of the facts, truly letting go of the past.