During a divorce, you need support and solid information to make smart decisions. It is essential to pick your support team carefully, relying on people you trust, like family, friends and qualified legal and financial professionals. But these days, a new kind of support person is becoming popular: the divorce doula.
What exactly does a divorce doula do?
Divorce doulas (also called divorce coaches) are professionals who offer emotional support and practical guidance during your separation process.
Divorce doulas are becoming increasingly popular as people seek more personal and holistic support during their divorce. Some people hire them to have someone in their corner to listen, offer encouragement and help them organize their thoughts and next steps.
Benefits of a supportive team
Working with parties like a divorce doula can make the process less stressful. Many clients report that doulas help them:
- Feel more confident during negotiations
- Stay organized with paperwork and appointments
- Focus on their long-term goals rather than short-term emotions
- Reduce overall stress and anxiety
A doula or coach can provide an objective perspective when emotions run high. They may help with creating self-care routines and preparing for upcoming meetings.
However, divorce doulas don’t replace lawyers or financial advisors. They work alongside your legal team to help you stay focused and emotionally balanced. Some people find this support helpful during a time when making clear decisions is difficult.
Crucial cautions to consider
While support during divorce is valuable, be careful about jumping on trends. Not all divorce doulas have proper training or qualifications. California has no specific licensing requirements for this role.
Before hiring anyone:
- Check their background and credentials
- Ask about their specific training in divorce coaching
- Request references from past clients
- Understand exactly what services they provide
Keep in mind that while divorce doulas may be on trend, they are not experts in California divorce law or financial planning. Trends come and go, but the decisions you make during your divorce will affect your finances and family for years to come. These choices require proper legal and financial guidance from licensed professionals.
Your divorce settlement should be based on California law and your specific situation, not on what worked for someone on social media. Emotional support is essential, but there is no substitute for sound legal advice from qualified attorneys.