The Benefits of a Divorce Support Group and How to Find One
- Lisa McNally
- Jul 1
- 4 min read
Divorce can feel incredibly isolating—especially if you're navigating a high-conflict situation or ending a long-term marriage. Whether you're facing the uncertainty of a gray divorce, managing co-parenting stress, or rebuilding your identity post-separation, one of the most overlooked yet powerful tools for emotional healing is joining a divorce support group.
At Optimal Divorce Solutions, I work with individuals and couples across the country, many of whom find that group support dramatically improves their clarity, emotional stability, and confidence. In this post, I’ll walk you through the core benefits of divorce support groups and exactly how to find the right one for your needs.
Why Divorce Support Groups Matter
You’re Not Alone—Even If It Feels That Way
Divorce can make even the most capable people feel emotionally overwhelmed. You might be grieving the relationship, unsure about your financial future, or struggling with your children’s reactions.
A divorce support group reminds you that others are walking similar paths. That sense of connection can be both grounding and empowering—especially during major life transitions like gray divorce or starting over after decades of marriage.
Support Groups Provide Emotional Safety and Understanding
In a structured, facilitated group, you're encouraged to express your thoughts and emotions freely. Group members offer validation, perspective, and encouragement without judgment.
You may hear someone put into words exactly what you’ve been feeling—or discover a new coping tool that helps you through a difficult week.
Click HERE to explore my Divorce Coaching services
The Key Benefits of Joining a Divorce Support Group
1. Emotional Validation and Reduced Isolation
Support groups offer a safe environment where your feelings are heard and validated. Knowing others have walked this path—and survived it—can be comforting and inspiring.
2. Practical Advice from Real-Life Experiences
Other members may share how they navigated:
Co-parenting challenges
Legal frustrations
Emotional setbacks
New relationships
Financial rebuilding
These real-world insights are often more relatable than textbook advice.
3. Improved Coping Skills and Emotional Resilience
Hearing others’ stories and strategies helps you build emotional strength. Group members often share:
Mindfulness or stress-reduction tools
Books and podcasts that helped them
Affirmations or journaling techniques
As a Certified Divorce Coach and Mediator, I often teach these same techniques in one-on-one sessions—and encourage clients to continue their growth within group settings.
4. Accountability and Motivation to Move Forward
It’s easy to feel stuck. But meeting weekly with others encourages progress. Whether it's setting boundaries, making financial decisions, or taking steps toward dating again, support groups create gentle accountability.
5. Long-Term Relationships and Networking
Many group members form lasting friendships or find peer mentors who understand the divorce experience better than anyone else could. For high-net-worth or gray divorce clients, finding a peer group who relates to the unique challenges of your lifestyle can be especially valuable.
How to Find the Right Divorce Support Group for You
Consider Your Needs and Goals
Ask yourself:
Do I want a co-ed group or one for my gender only?
Am I looking for a group focused on emotional support, practical advice, or both?
Do I prefer in-person or virtual meetings?
Some clients prefer groups tailored to parents, gray divorcees, or high-net-worth individuals. Others seek out general divorce recovery spaces.
Types of Divorce Support Groups
Facilitated by professionals (like therapists, coaches, or mediators)
Peer-led groups with members at various divorce stages
Faith-based groups for those seeking spiritual connection
Online communities and forums for flexibility and anonymity
As a professional coach and mediator, I recommend choosing a facilitated group when possible. It ensures structure, emotional safety, and expert guidance.
Where to Look
Ask your divorce coach or mediator (like me!) for vetted recommendations
Local community centers or libraries often host free or low-cost meetings
Hospitals or mental health clinics may offer support groups
Online directories such as:
Facebook divorce support communities
How I Help Clients Integrate Group Support Into Their Divorce Plan
At Optimal Divorce Solutions, I take a holistic approach to divorce planning. In addition to my 1:1 coaching and financial analysis services, I often:
Refer clients to the right support group based on their personality and goals
Teach emotional regulation strategies that support group participation
Run or co-host virtual group coaching circles
If you’re going through a divorce and struggling emotionally, joining a support group could be the one shift that helps everything else fall into place.
Click HERE to schedule a Divorce Strategy Consultation with me.
Key Takeaways:
Divorce support groups help reduce isolation and offer emotional validation
You’ll gain practical insights, tools, and coping strategies from real people
Group support can motivate you to make progress during the divorce process
Choose a group that matches your needs: virtual or in-person, peer-led or professional
I help clients connect with the right groups while offering personalized coaching
If you’re feeling overwhelmed, emotionally drained, or unsure how to move forward, a divorce support group could be your lifeline—and I’m here to help you find the right one.
Schedule your free 30-minute consultation today and let’s talk about what kind of support would serve you best.
Lisa McNally Certified Divorce Coach | Certified Divorce Mediator Certified Divorce Financial Analyst (CDFA®) | Certified Divorce Real Estate Expert (CDRE)
Licensed Real Estate Broker (NH & ME)
Founder, Optimal Divorce Solutions
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