Jennifer J. Harman, PhD, is an Associate Professor of Psychology at Colorado State University. I discovered Dr. Harman when I watched her TEDx Talk about Parental Alienation. While watching, I was intrigued because, unlike many professionals, Dr. Harman didn’t focus solely on the diagnosis of parents and children. She talked broadly about the societal stereotypes and how our attitudes about mothers and fathers allow alienation to take hold. I was fascinated and wanted to know more. A few weeks ago, I had the honor of interviewing Dr. Harman. She told me that Parental Alienation isn’t just a Family Issue, it’s a […]
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Resource: The Divorce School
On April 1, 2016 The Divorce School opened for its first semester. This fabulous resource is a collaborative effort between Divorce Magazine and DivorcedMoms.com and brings a wealth of information to those navigating the divorce process. I’m honored to be a member of The Divorce School Faculty, and my segment focuses on Overcoming The Shame of Divorce. But shame is only one of many topics covered in the program, students of the school can choose to learn from experts on the topics of Fraud, Infidelity, High Conflict Separations, Legal Issues, Alienation, Blended Families and more. The Divorce School is free […]
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Marriage is Work
“Marriage is work.” We hear the words all the time (as if to suggest those who divorce aren’t working hard enough). As a result of the comparison, I often liken marriage to a job: first you have to prove yourself worthy, then you get hired and everyone rejoices because a vacancy has been filled. There is hope and optimism that the team will move forward and accomplish great things together. You have to show up every day, even when you don’t exactly feel like it. You have to use the skills you have as well as learn new ones as […]
Continue readingThe First Day of Spring
On Sunday I saw massive lines outside Rita’s Italian Ice. The throngs of people waiting in 50-degree weather in Central PA was indicative of a long-awaited annual tradition: free icy deliciousness in celebration of The First Day of Spring. This holiday of sorts represents more than flavored ice. The first day of Spring is also known as the Equinox, referring to the equal amount of day and night experienced across the planet twice a year. For those of us in the Northern Hemisphere, our days have been getting longer since December, and now that we’ve passed the Equinox, we’ll enjoy […]
Continue readingDear Client, I Trust You
I’m often asked, “If a couple decides to stay married, would you talk them out of it?” And, “What if people come to you for help with their divorce, and you realize it’s better for them to stay married?” And, “Why don’t you work to save marriages?” Well…. Dear Client, I know there are many marriage counselors out there. You likely tried that route. I know how hard it is to accept the end of a relationship. It was probably a painful conclusion. I know people will criticize you for taking the easy way out, for being selfish and not […]
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