How Do I Choose the Best Divorce Support Group?

A divorce support group can be extremely valuable to those dealing with the emotional exhaustion as well as the legal and financial questions that commonly accompany the divorce process. In order to truly benefit from a divorce support group, however, it is important to find a group which fits your needs and allows you to feel comfortable. As you begin searching for a group, consider whether you would prefer a peer-led or professional-led format and whether or not you would like to join a group with a religious affiliation. Then, consider practical issues, such as membership fees, group size restrictions, meeting times, and location.

Before choosing a divorce support group, it can be useful to determine whether you would prefer a group run by participants themselves or one which is directed by a professional figure, such as a social worker or a psychiatrist. This decision is highly subjective, and should be made based on what you feel most comfortable with rather than what others may recommend. Some individuals opt for a peer-led group because they feel they cannot “open up” in front of a professional group leader. Others choose a professionally-led group because they find that the meetings tend to be more structured than peer-led ones.

Many divorce support groups are affiliated with a particular religious denomination. Thus, before you begin searching for a divorce support group, you should also determine whether you wish to join a group that has a religious or spiritual aspect. If you are interested in such a group, you might consider asking a minister, rabbi, or other religious leader for recommendations. Should you prefer a non-religious group, you might obtain a list of recommendations from your lawyer or from your local community center.

As you continue your search for a divorce support group, narrow down your options by considering practical issues. For instance, determine whether a group you are interested in assesses a membership fee, and if so, whether that fee suits your current budget. Additionally, decide whether you would prefer a large or small group size, and find out if a prospective group limits total membership numbers. Finally, avoid adding further stress to your life by looking for a group that meets at a time which easily fits within your schedule and at a location that is convenient for you, such as a community center which is close to your home or office.