Divorce is rarely just a legal event. For most people, it is a profound life transition — one that often feels like wandering through dark, unfamiliar corridors with no sense of direction. Confusion, chaos, and a deep sense of numbness become daily companions. And while lawyers handle the legal proceedings and counsellors tend to the emotional wounds, there has long been a critical gap in between: the logistics of daily survival and the strategy of moving forward. That gap is exactly where divorce coaching steps in.

Over a nine-month period, from January to September 2025, AFLC offered pro-bono sessions with  Certified Divorce Coach, Shelly Sadaphal, who worked with 24 individuals navigating the turbulent waters of separation. The results reflected a genuine hunger for this kind of support — participants engaged in sessions ranging from one to three hours of coaching, with many returning to build on their progress.

So what exactly does a divorce coach do? Unlike a lawyer, who focuses on filings, hearings, and legal outcomes, or a counsellor, who addresses emotional trauma, a divorce coach occupies the practical middle ground. Sadaphal describes her role as holding the torch so clients can finally see the path through the fog — bridging the gap between emotional upheaval and legal requirements so that individuals don’t merely “get through” their divorce, but come out the other side whole and empowered.

The challenges people face during separation are well-documented. Decision paralysis leaves many unable to determine what questions to ask their lawyer or how to prioritise their needs. High emotions create a communication gap that sometimes makes productive conversations with a former partner feel impossible. Many also struggle with identity loss — feeling untethered from who they were during the marriage — while simultaneously juggling co-parenting responsibilities, financial restructuring, and career demands.

A divorce coach helps clients step off the emotional rollercoaster and approach decisions with logic rather than reaction, considering the long-term impact on their children, finances, and mental well-being. The goal is not just survival, but healing and ultimately thriving.

Building on the success of the 2025 programme, the Archdiocesan Family Life Commission has partnered again with Sadaphal to continue offering access to this invaluable support. Beginning March 17th, pro-bono online sessions will be held every Tuesday, from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m., with each person eligible for up to two complimentary one-hour sessions on a first come, first served basis.

For those walking through one of life’s most difficult seasons, this is an opportunity not to be missed. As the scripture that anchors the programme reminds us: “Let us not grieve as others who have no hope.” — 1 Thessalonians 4:13

To book an online session or learn more, contact the Archdiocesan Family Life Commission at aflc.pc@catholictt.org;  AFLC website – aflcrc.org or reach Shelly Sadaphal via Instagram at @sadaphal_ or on LinkedIn.