Find a Mental Health Professional for Separation, Divorce & Co-parenting

About Separation, Divorce & Co-parenting support

Separation and divorce are among the most stressful life experiences, affecting not just the couple but children, extended family, finances, and social networks. The emotional impact can include grief, anger, guilt, relief, loneliness, and uncertainty, sometimes all at once. Navigating legal processes, housing changes, and the practical demands of co-parenting while managing emotional distress can feel overwhelming. Support during this time matters. Counselling and therapy can help people process the emotional aspects of separation at their own pace, while also building clarity about what they need going forward. Family therapy and mediation can support co-parenting arrangements, helping both parents prioritise the needs of their children even when their own relationship is strained. Some parents benefit from individual therapy focused on adjusting to new roles and identities post-separation. In Australia, Family Relationship Centres funded by the Australian Government provide mediation and family dispute resolution services across many communities, often at low or no cost. Relationships Australia and Legal Aid in each state can also provide guidance. Children may benefit from their own support through a school counsellor or child psychologist. A GP referral can connect parents to subsidised mental health support through Medicare's Better Access initiative.