High Conflict Diversion Program Parenting Class
Finding Balance out of Chaos – Changing for the Children
Join us in a parenting class to help parents learn how to make the best of a difficult situation.
Studies show that 25 – 35% of divorces can be referred to as “High Conflict.” Out of this group, as many as 70% of those divorcing have either a substance abuse problem, a personality disorder, (Narcissistic, Anti-Social or Borderline Personality Disorder, for example) or other psychiatric problems such as Bipolar Disorder.
Our experience has shown us that one of the parents in a High Conflict divorce frequently has no intention of attending a conflict diversion program even if ordered by the court and if they do attend class, will do little to integrate the concepts of the class.
Our High Conflict Diversion Program requires that only one parent understand and implement the strategies we teach. Even with changes incorporated by one parent, the conflict can be stopped. It should be noted that when substance abuse, personality disorders or other issues of this nature (such as a spouse who can’t or won’t “disconnect”) are involved, special and more individualized strategies are required. These are all incorporated into the curriculum and a major focus of the High Conflict Diversion Program.
THE GOAL
The goal of our High Conflict Diversion Program is to work with attorneys and counselors at the beginning of the divorce process (when possible), even prior to papers being filed, in order to identify the potential for High Conflict. Even if a parent (or parents) start the High Conflict Diversion Program after a high conflict scenario has begun, strategies for resolution frequently succeed in shifting the dynamic away from conflict continuation.
The concepts and strategies we use are as follows:
- By starting early in the divorce process, we can look out for potential “red flags” surrounding certain behaviors that will identify substance abuse issues and other indicators that suggest that a High Conflict scenario may be present.
- By working with attorneys in the early stages of potentially High Conflict divorces, we will increase the probability of obtaining a settlement agreement before the proceedings collapse.
- We teach communication skills and help our students to identify, and then responsibly avoid, “triggers” that lead to conflict. These skills are not only helpful during the divorce and parenting, but are also highly useful in maintaining a better relationship with a new partner or spouse. These communication skills also help the attorney-client communication stay clear and on track.
- By helping students think “outside the box,” we help empower them to rely on their own inner resources, rather than the court system, to remedy their situation.
- We help identify, both directly and indirectly, the belief patterns, triggers, coping mechanisms and survival strategies that prevent parents from accessing their capacity to disengage from a High Conflict divorce and move on with their lives.
- We teach centering and relaxation techniques to help students to calm down prior to, during and after contact with a non-cooperative ex-spouse, depositions, meetings with attorneys, court appearances and things of this nature.
