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Health & Fitness

NoVa Divorce and Co-Parenting Support Groups

Divorce is tough, and co-parenting with your ex can be difficult for years. A good support group can be great for helping you through these times.


One group is meeting Thursday, Sept. 12, 2013 in Kings Park Library, 9000 Burke Lake Rd., Burke, VA from 7:00 pm to 8:45 pm.

Divorce is tough. During a time when you are most upset and are likely to have the most difficulty making rational decisions, you have to deal with legal issues, solve financial problems, and maybe also take care of children you love who are just as distressed as you are. For many parents, the struggles with one’s former partner go on for years, even after the divorce. A good support group can do wonders for helping you through this period.

Quite a few groups are available in northern Virginia. Some meet for a limited number of sessions to help you learn how the legal system works, how to manage communication with your ex, and how to handle your finances. Some provide ongoing support for as long as you need it. Having people who know you and care how you are doing is a big part of what makes these groups valuable.

Here are some of the long-term support groups available in or near Northern Virginia area. 

  • Divorce and Co-Parenting Support Group - Based in the Burke/Springfield area, this new group focuses on peer support and co-parenting. 
  • Brilliant Exits - Based in Alexandria, this group provides free TLC get-togethers and, for modest fees, very good educational programs with a variety of expert speakers.
  • Ever Changing River - Based in Ashburn, this group provides a support system and very good educational programs.
  • Metro DC Divorce Support - Serving this whole region, this group provides peer support plus information from an attorney licensed to practice in VA, DC, and MD. The group meets in the District of Columbia.
  • DivorceCare looks like a good resource for finding a 10- or 12-session educational program about coping with various aspects of divorce.

If you know of other divorce, co-parenting, or single parent support groups in northern Virginia, please mention them in comments below.

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Dr. Colin is a Professional Family Mediator certified by the Virginia Supreme Court. She is not an attorney or a therapist. This article is for informational purposes only. Nothing here should be construed as legal advice.

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