Read through the Quick Assessment to the Right. These are some of the many common struggles or questions that occur surrounding divorce. There are many issues that surface for individuals when they are faced with divorce. Some people struggle because they don’t want their marriage to end, whereas others might have wanted to divorce, only to face unexpected challenges.

If you find many of these questions have come up for you, we can help. These are common questions people face in the process of divorce and afterwards. With the high divorce rates in society this is becoming more of a parenting issue than ever before. We have years of experience helping people with divorce issues. We can help with issues from small divorce concerns all the way to high conflict divorce. We have helped people sort out issues for themselves to recover emotionally. We have helped people understand the stress, anger, depression, and parenting that need to change because of divorce. We have helped build coping skills. We have helped with family skills. We have helped with communication in a way that helps you sorting facts from feelings.

If you have feelings of loss, failure, or not being good enough, these are normal reactions to this big event in your life. Learning how to sort out these feelings into manageable parts so they can be addressed is another important skill you can learn. Your feelings are logical and have very predictable rules. You can learn this skill just like any of the other things you have learned in life and use it to your advantage.

Sorting out what the children are going through is another task that comes with adjusting to divorce. Children need a predictable routine, discipline, and relationship with you. It is common for parents to feel grief at this loss and to give in to children’s acting out. The children are testing limits to establish some safety again. They often do not have the skills to discuss what is happening verbally so they act out their feelings. Learning how to be firm and caring is especially tough at this time. There is caring by doing and there is caring that is separate from doing. As a parent you have two jobs with your children: the first is to love them and the second is teaching them how to be successful adults. Routine, structure, and discipline that is consistent, establishes you love them and care for their safety. Then teaching them how to be responsible allows them to be successful as adults.

Children have different needs at different ages. Infants need someone to consistently respond to their needs and feelings. Young children need to know they cannot get away with using the other parent to get out of their duties at home. Teenagers need to be allowed to have a social network regardless of whose house they are spending the weekend. All children need limits and rules to learn how to deal with life as an adult. The world is not going to give them anything more than it gives you as an adult. Make the children’s home life match reality. They need to learn to communicate and relate to you so they can relate to their peers and future employers. They need to learn to do tasks (chores) even if they don’t want to do them. This is laying the foundation to work a job that may have parts they don’t necessarily like to do. It is ok to love your children but the more you protect them from the real world the more they will need to figure it out later. The cost of learning usually goes up with age. Let them handle as much as they can for their age. Check with them to see how they would solve the issue, then be curious how they will solve the (hypothetical) problem you are worried will happen to them.

Children need to have their own feelings and thoughts. They are separate from yours. Be curious about how they see things, like you were when they were toddlers discovering the house. This can allow you to bring the fun back into parenting again.

Sharing sports, vacations, holidays, and birthdays are difficult. You will have to deal with these things the rest of the children’s life. How do they do this or that? How do I cope with my ex-spouse being at these things or do I take turns being at these things. It is good to check your own heart first. Sort out your own heart on these issues and then you can listen to your children. Once you have a sense of what is you and what is the children’s issues you can make better decisions about what to discuss with your ex-spouse.

Schedule an initial consultation if you would like more help from a trained expert. There is no reason to continue to struggle with these difficult issues alone. Experience the relief of letting go of this pain and sorting your life out. Be the parent you want to be again. Help the children to be the best they can be even if they have to go through this loss too. We now you care and can help that come through for the children. We understand the tangle of thoughts and feelings you experience. Let our experience help you learn skills to recover quickly from the terrible pain of divorce. It is not too late.

Quick Assessment

  1. I don’t want this to happen. What are my options?
  2. I am depressed. When will this end?
  3. How do I reach some sense of peace after this much pain?
  4. What do my kids need from me now?
  5. My kids are really acting out. Is this normal?
  6. How do I help the children adjust to our divorce?
  7. What are step children issues I should watch for?
  8. How do we share holidays so the children don’t have to deal with our tension at those times of the year?
  9. At what age should I let the children have a say about the visits?
  10. What do I do with feelings of anger?
  11. What do I do with feelings of loss?
  12. How do I talk with my children about it?
  13. How do I not be controlled anymore?
  14. What are other people thinking about me?
  15. There is a step-parent in the children’s life now. What do I do if they call her “mom” or call him “dad”?
  16. How do I respond to the children when they tell me things that are happening at the other house which I don’t like?
  17. I am thinking of dating again. How will that impact the children?
  18. How soon can I get on with my life?

What Our Clients are Saying.....

David Jones is very helpful and friendly hilly recommend him
Damian Madrigal
Damian Madrigal
01:26 31 Jan 25
This counselor is great with kids. If you are in need of any services with mental health or any issues that would have you seeking help, try her out!
Natasha Johnson
Natasha Johnson
02:28 11 Dec 24
I had David as counselor in the past and I have nothing but positive words to say about him. I now have been seeing Dwayne and he is such an amazing individual. He is very in detail with things. He makes sure all questions are answered! Very patient and every appointment always feels very safe and welcoming!
Natalie Hernandez
Natalie Hernandez
13:30 21 Oct 24
DuWayne is a very thoughtful and patient counselor. I look forward to my sessions and always leave with a sense of calm.
Pamela Anne
Pamela Anne
01:51 22 Aug 24
Honestly the 👌 best
Courtney Worthington
Courtney Worthington
00:46 21 Aug 24
Very professional experience. Informative, considerate and helpful. Thanks!
Gabriel Othon
Gabriel Othon
17:28 16 Aug 24
An excellent collection of very capable professionals who have helped me out extremely well.
Harry Leffler
Harry Leffler
20:52 14 Aug 24
I love my therapist here at Braden. Vickey is so caring and helpful. She is able to challenge me on hard topic in a supportive way. The staff are helpful and friendly.
Jacquie Morrey
Jacquie Morrey
15:35 01 Aug 24
I would rate as excellent the counselor with whom I've been working. She listens and offers very good suggestions for consideration and action.
Harry Leffler
Harry Leffler
01:18 11 Apr 24
My counselor Christine K. is very helpful, easy to talk to, makes me feel comfortable, gives great feedback!!!
stacie dishman
stacie dishman
16:30 20 Feb 24
Dwayne at Braden counseling goes above and beyond to help his clients. He is very professional and his priorities are all about his clients. I honestly, have to say that Dwayne is an amazing person, and I truly value our working relationships.
Todd Friedewald
Todd Friedewald
00:31 12 Feb 24
Highly recommend!
Joseph Dolcimascolo
Joseph Dolcimascolo
02:12 31 Jan 24
Braden counseling is outstanding in the work they do Paul has changed my life and helped me so much in understand myself better and transforming me into a better person all around I recommend this center and Paul to anyone keep up the hard work and dedication!
Antonio Diaz
Antonio Diaz
02:14 24 Jan 24
I appreciate the open dialogue allowing attendees to share their thoughts, which enriches the learning experience, but also to have the focused guidance of a counselor to ensure the point of topic.
Joe Freehill
Joe Freehill
15:18 23 Jan 24
Dwayne is awesome and a pleasure to work with! I will request him every time! Thank you, Dwayne!
Jen Rupp
Jen Rupp
20:06 15 Dec 23
Dwayne Johnson is very professional and understanding.. Great counselor.. very satisfying
Eva Thompson
Eva Thompson
01:25 30 Nov 23
I called so many other counseling office first, either no one answer the call or no confirmed days for class, with Braden, right away, walk me through the process, fees and needed information, able to set up appointment next day to do the testing and schedule me the class right way. very helpful, not like some other place asked me to fill out so many medical forms although just 10 hours DUI Risk Education.I am really happy with them, they are also not charge as much as other company.
Lan Hankes
Lan Hankes
22:56 03 Oct 23
Everyone was very professional and kind!
Cody Neuschwanger
Cody Neuschwanger
16:49 18 Sep 23
Worked with Dwayne Thomas at the North Aurora location and couldn't be more satisfied with the respect and understanding he operated with. Really knows how to connect and convey the right message.
Bret Van Gampler
Bret Van Gampler
23:30 05 Sep 23
Very friendly and did a great job.
Matthew Quirk
Matthew Quirk
21:41 18 Aug 23
I see Amanda Cimaglia and she is by far the most compassionate, respecting and caring counselor I've had. With all the craziness I'm going through she really keeps me grounded. Always listens to me and never ever rushes me but gives me time for her positive feedback.I've always had trouble trusting someone with my issues because I'd find out that the counselor did not go according to her perfession but listen to others to get something out of me. I never had once had that once with Amanda Cimaglia and she let's me work through things I need to at my own pace. And for that I thank her 😊 . She has my mental health at her best interest. Wish there was more counselors out there like her so others can have a safe spot to speak without judgment like I do.From the very bottom of my heart, thank you Amanada Cimaglia and Braden Counseling for having her on board. I'm sure all your staff and team members are just as compassionate ❤️
Maggie Opiola
Maggie Opiola
19:52 26 Jun 23
David Jones is an outstanding counselor. I feel very fortunate to have him as our Lead on Saturday Morning group sessions.
John Boehm
John Boehm
06:31 24 May 23
Staff was amazing. Everything was explained and all questions answered.
Wanda Sutton
Wanda Sutton
23:21 21 Apr 23
understanding compassionate reflextive knowledged tool based
happy holiday
happy holiday
20:10 09 Dec 22
Braden Counseling is a clinic we frequently refer to because of the clinical quality and comprehensive services. All interactions we have had with Braden have been very positive and helpful; excellent coordination of care.
Maggie Miilano
Maggie Miilano
16:57 02 Dec 22
Braden counseling is very good at what they do. They do great things. I’ve been through there system more then once, I recommend them all day every day. Take your pick. I’d say choose one these guys. Very friendly, never mess up and very interactive. If you need anything they are there. I have met a lot of the staff and they all are true and gifted. Thank you Braden counseling for your great works!
Cody Bell
Cody Bell
23:02 21 Sep 22
Dr.Braden is an incredible, sweet and motivating leader! I’m so blessed to have found her center to successfully get me through 10 years of care. Everyone should know if I overcame my many obstacles they can too! Work hard and put up a fight!
Lisa Tegeler
Lisa Tegeler
00:19 29 Jul 22
As an attorney, finding the right treatment center for my clients is critical to their success. I have been referring my clients to Braden Counseling for years. They are always hard working, professional, and accomodating.
Brian Mirandola
Brian Mirandola
16:59 26 May 22
I love my therapist at Braden, I always feel listened to and I look forward to my visits. All of the staff I've interacted with has been super friendly and helpful, and the environment is very calming. Best therapy center I have been to.
Devon Buza
Devon Buza
15:25 25 Jun 21
Very professional and they were extremely nice, I'm happy with my choice of going threw Braden counseling center for my classes!
gage butts
gage butts
19:43 07 Feb 21
Amazing place
Ralph Burton
Ralph Burton
16:30 30 Jan 21
Braden Counseling’s staff is outstanding! The counselor conducted herself in a very friendly, courteous, and professional manner. I was treated with dignity and respect. I was put at ease and the evaluation went smoothly, and efficiently. I would definitely recommend Braden Counseling for all of your personal needs.😊
Gregory Link
Gregory Link
17:16 21 Jan 21
Excellent first visit with Dr. Braden.
Gary Duffett
Gary Duffett
21:18 19 Dec 20
My son liked his first visit and is open to going back again.
Veris Nicole
Veris Nicole
22:36 12 Oct 20
Very friendly and welcoming staff. Highly recommend
Jennifer Rosales
Jennifer Rosales
21:50 29 Jul 20
I could not be more satisfied with braden counseling with thier help. Very patient with clients in crisis and need of thier help.
randall nuckles
randall nuckles
15:12 09 Jul 20
I truly got the help I needed here and I appreciate all the staff member for making it a comfortable environment to feel free to talk about what's on your mind and making sure you get the proper help you need.
Majah’s Mayhem
Majah’s Mayhem
19:30 20 May 20
Love the staff .. came here for help and they definitely made a point to take care of all my paper work I needed .. would highly recommend them mostly Nikki shes a great help with anything .. always so cheerfull here 🙂
miguel tovar
miguel tovar
00:58 17 Dec 19
All staff very nice, respectful, caring, patientWould definitely recommend
Zack Newby
Zack Newby
01:23 18 Nov 19
One word....AMAZING !Very Comprehensive and Professional service. I would Highly Recommend to any one in need.
Joseph Perry
Joseph Perry
16:58 10 Jul 19
Dr. Jane Braden was absolutely wonderful and help me though my whole dui process, made it easy and help me understand.thank you some much DR. Branden for everything, your the best !!!😜
Sean Battersby
Sean Battersby
18:46 12 Mar 19
Friendly staff, very professional and results driven
Jeffrey Kerner
Jeffrey Kerner
13:53 01 Aug 17
Caring staff. Dr Braden was extremely compassionate and supportive during a difficult time. Recommend to anyone!
T Anderson
T Anderson
21:54 06 Apr 16
Braden Counseling center has the finest professionals around. I'd highly recommend their services should a need arise.
Ndisox
Ndisox
03:03 29 Mar 16
Braden Counseling is amazing! Very kind, very friendly staff. Treated me as though I'd been family. I'd recommend them to anyone!
Jessica jorgensen
Jessica jorgensen
22:34 24 Mar 16
They have amazing staff. They listen and help out so much I would recommend them to anyone .
Brad Jorgensen
Brad Jorgensen
22:33 24 Mar 16
The staff is very welcoming and friendly and professional when you walk through the door!! I had been dealing with some anxiety for some time.... I am so glad I went to Braden counseling my first visit there I felt a sense of being welcomed and actually listened to!! Needless to say when I walked out the door I felt a weight off my shoulders I haven't felt in sometime!! So thank you to your wonderful staff!! I would highly recommend Braden counseling to anyone who is looking for a great counselor to talk with and help with your mental health!!
Deborah Mccoy
Deborah Mccoy
19:00 24 Mar 16
I was an emotional wreck when I first went. I was nervous and probably not making a lot of sense. The staff seemed to understand and immediately put me at ease. By the time I left, life just didn’t seem so bad. Thank you Braden Center for being there.
Pam Pascolini
Pam Pascolini
15:57 24 Mar 16
The staff is friendly and courteous. I was amazed at how helpful they were. These people are top notch and very professional. I would highly recommend this office.
Tricia Hernandez
Tricia Hernandez
15:45 24 Mar 16
Braden Counseling Center has always been wonderful. Their front staff is very kind and helpful and Dr. Braden is nothing but professional during all encounters I have had with her. Their facility and staff care about providing quality services to their clients. I highly recommend them.
Amanda Poturalski
Amanda Poturalski
13:56 24 Mar 16
Would give this place more then 5 stars if I could. I Highly recommend them. Staff is amazing there and so helpful .
Master Shake
Master Shake
21:57 23 Mar 16
I highly recommend Braden Counseling. All the staff there is amazing and very sweet 🙂
Melissa Stathis
Melissa Stathis
21:48 23 Mar 16
Highly recommend this place. Very helpful and always courteous. Ms. Rogers is the best and has excellent skills with people to help them through a multitude of problems.
Sarah Schuyler
Sarah Schuyler
20:37 23 Mar 16
Amazing place! The counselors have helped me through some of my lowest points & the girl at the front desk, Cindy, is always super helpful, kind & courteous. Highly recommend!!!
Jennifer Alexander
Jennifer Alexander
19:54 23 Mar 16