Meet Jennifer Furlong Counselor LPC-S and Hamid Naraghi Divorce Coach

 

Divorce Support Groups are held in person as well as via videoconference.

Topics covered in the Dallas divorce support group: 

1. The "Real" vs the "Legal" Divorce

Real Divorce:
Emotional Aspect: This involves dealing with the emotional fallout, such as grief, anger, and acceptance. It's about coming to terms with the end of the relationship and finding a new normal.
Practical Changes: Adjusting to a new lifestyle, which may include living arrangements, daily routines, and social circles.
Childcare and Co-parenting: Establishing new ways to parent cooperatively and manage the emotional well-being of children involved.

Legal Divorce:
Legal Proceedings: Involves filing for divorce, serving divorce papers, and going through court hearings.
Settlement Agreements: Negotiating the division of assets, child custody arrangements, alimony, and child support.
Documentation: Finalizing and filing all necessary legal documents to make the divorce official in the eyes of the law.

2. Ideas and tools for dealing with controlling or narcissistic behavior.

Education and Awareness:
Learn About Narcissism: Understand the traits and tactics used by narcissists to control others. Books, articles, and professional advice can be invaluable.

Establish Boundaries:
Set Clear Limits: Define what behavior is unacceptable and stick to these boundaries firmly.
Communicate Boundaries: Clearly communicate your boundaries to the person involved.

Seek Support:
Therapy and Counseling: Engage with a therapist who can help you develop strategies to cope with and respond to narcissistic behavior.
Support Groups: Join groups where you can share experiences and strategies with others who have dealt with similar issues.

Practical Tools:
Documentation: Keep records of all interactions that may be relevant in legal proceedings.
Mindfulness and Stress Reduction: Practices like meditation, yoga, and deep-breathing exercises can help manage stress.

3. Financial Implications and How to plan

Assess Financial Situation:
Inventory of Assets and Liabilities: List all assets (bank accounts, properties, investments) and liabilities (loans, debts).
Income and Expenses: Analyze current income sources and monthly expenses.

Budgeting and Planning:
Post-Divorce Budget: Create a budget that reflects your new financial reality.
Emergency Fund: Ensure you have savings to cover unexpected expenses during the transition.

Legal and Financial Advice:
Consult a Financial Planner: Get professional advice on managing and protecting your assets.
Understand Legal Costs: Be aware of the costs associated with the legal process of divorce, including attorney fees.

Future Planning:
Retirement Accounts: Plan for the division and management of retirement accounts.
Insurance: Update or obtain necessary insurance policies, including health, life, and property insurance.

4. What questions should I ask...my counselor, attorney, financial planner, CPA, and other professionals?

Counselor:
How can I best manage the emotional stress of divorce?
What strategies can I use to support my children through this transition?
Can you recommend support groups or resources?

Attorney:
How do I know which attorney is right for me and my specific situation?
How should my attorney communicate with me so I know what is going on with my case?
What are my rights and obligations during the divorce process?
How will the assets and debts be divided?
What should I expect regarding child custody and support?

Financial Planner:
 How should I manage my finances during and after the divorce?
 What steps can I take to protect my assets?
 How can I plan for future financial stability?

CPA (Certified Public Accountant):
How will my taxes be affected by the divorce?
What tax implications should I consider when dividing assets?
Are there any tax benefits or deductions I can claim?

5. Making new friends and creating your own support network. 

Join Groups and Activities:
Community Groups: Participate in local community events and groups.
Hobbies and Interests: Engage in activities and hobbies that interest you, providing opportunities to meet like-minded people.

Online Communities:
Social Media: Join online groups and forums related to your interests.
Support Groups: Find online support groups for people going through similar experiences.

Volunteering:
Local Charities: Volunteer with local charities or organizations to meet new people and give back to the community.
Events and Fundraisers: Participate in events that align with your values and interests.

Networking Events:
Professional Networks: Attend networking events related to your career or professional interests.
Workshops and Conferences: Participate in workshops and conferences to learn new skills and meet new people.

Self-Care and Personal Growth:
Therapy and Coaching: Consider working with a therapist or life coach to build confidence and social skills.
Personal Development: Engage in activities that promote self-improvement and personal growth.

Sign up to join our Divorce Support Group in Dallas, TX

Hamid Naraghi
25+ years experience in helping with complex Family Law cases : Dallas, Park Cities, & Highland Park, TX area.