How our parents showed us love as children can significantly influence how we love others as adults and navigate a relationship breakdown.
On a recent episode of the Divorcing Well podcast, host Leanne Townsend spoke with therapist Johanna Lynn about how understanding this connection can help us uncover subconscious behaviours and build healthier relationships in the future.
High-conflict divorces, often filled with heated arguments, can intensify the pain of a broken heart and add extra hurt from harsh words. To understand this pain, or why someone might be making the divorce harder, it helps to look at family-of-origin relationships.
Lynn suggested mapping your family three generations back to understand the experiences, traumas and relationships. For instance, an absent, alcoholic parent might cause negative feelings toward an emotionally distant partner in the present.
“We fall in love with the familiar,” Lynn said. Understanding how to break toxic patterns rooted in past experiences could lead to healthier relationships post-divorce.
Reflecting on the past can help us heal in the present — and the future.
Listen on Apple, Spotify or wherever you listen to your favourite podcasts.
Family lawyers a steady guide through child custody disputes
Navigating the emotional and legal complexities of child custody during a separation or divorce can be extremely challenging for everyone involved.
In a new blog, Leanne Townsend explores the crucial role family law solicitors play in guiding parents through the intricate landscape of child custody, ensuring the best outcomes for their children.
In Canada, child custody includes legal custody, which pertains to decisions about a child’s upbringing and physical custody, which establishes the child’s primary residence. Family lawyers help parents understand these concepts and work towards arrangements that prioritize their children’s best interests.
Navigating child custody agreements without legal assistance can feel like being lost in an unfamiliar city without a map. Family law solicitors bring extensive knowledge of Canadian family law, court procedures and negotiation strategies, demystifying legal jargon, facilitating negotiations, drafting binding agreements and advocating for you in court if necessary.
Check out the blog to understand why selecting the right family lawyer is crucial and learn what factors to consider when making your choice.
How the trauma of divorce inspired a mother to pursue a career in law
Divorce is a major life transition that has the potential to propel you to new heights and also challenge you in unexpected ways.
In a recent interview with CBC, 42-year-old Saskatchewan mother Saba Ahmad shared how her divorce inspired her to pursue a career in law to help other South Asian women.
Ahmad graduated from the University of Saskatchewan’s law school, a moment she described as “beautiful” after experiencing a traumatic divorce. As a South Asian woman, she faced significant cultural stigma surrounding divorce, which initially made her afraid to leave her marriage.
Ahmad found the legal profession dominated by white men who couldn’t fully understand her experiences as a South Asian woman dealing with divorce. This realization fueled her desire to become a positive force for change.
“A very difficult situation has led to such a beautiful path,” Ahmad said. She added that becoming a lawyer to help others seek justice is not only a privilege but also her passion and purpose.
If you’re struggling through a family split, Ahmad’s story is a powerful reminder that life’s low points can be pivotal for starting something new and amazing.
Highlights from Divorce Explained
Should you change lawyers while your case is in progress?
Switching lawyers mid-divorce can be a tough but necessary decision. In this episode, you’ll learn when to change, how it impacts your case and tips for a smooth transition.
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Looking for more information?
Looking for more information on what to expect during a divorce, abusive relationships, love and money, life after divorce or other family law topics?
Check out the In the News and Blog sections of my website where there’s a wealth of great content to get you up to speed on everything you need to know.
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