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Navigating Divorce for Ages 9-16

Facilitated by Samantha Lopez, LMFT
Location: The Therapy Innovation, El Cajon California
When: Classes start first Thursday of each month below, pending interest:

May, July, September, November
Duration: 6 Weeks | 1.5-hour Sessions

Cost: Free!  

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Course Objectives:

  • Provide a safe space to express emotions and concerns about divorce

  • Help participants understand changes in family dynamics

  • Teach coping skills for stress, uncertainty, and parental conflict

  • Develop communication skills and personal resilience

  • Foster self-esteem and confidence through self-reflection

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Week 1: Welcome & Understanding Divorce

  • Icebreakers & introductions

  • Establishing group rules and confidentiality

  • Exploring emotions and myths about divorce

  • Take-Home: Journal Prompt – “What do I hope to gain from this group?”

 

Week 2: Processing Emotions & Coping Skills

  • Identifying and naming emotions

  • Healthy ways to express feelings (journaling, art, movement)

  • Introduction to stress management techniques

  • Take-Home: Emotion Wheel – Track emotions throughout the week & reflect on triggers

 

Week 3: Managing Stress & Difficult Feelings

  • Recognizing stress and uncertainty

  • Coping with anger, guilt, and self-blame

  • Practicing mindfulness and relaxation techniques

  • Take-Home: “My Stress Plan” Worksheet – Identify stressors and coping strategies

 

Week 4: Communication & Healthy Boundaries

  • Role-playing conversations with parents

  • Setting boundaries & knowing when to ask for help

  • Strategies for handling conflict in healthy ways

  • Take-Home: “I-Statement” Practice – Write out responses for real-life scenarios

 

Week 5: Strengthening Self-Esteem & Relationships

  • Identifying personal strengths and values

  • Navigating friendships and sibling relationships

  • Addressing loyalty conflicts between parents

  • Take-Home: Vision Board – Create a collage of hopes, dreams, and personal goals

 

Week 6: Moving Forward & Personal Growth

  • Reflecting on lessons learned

  • Creating a personal coping plan

  • Sharing takeaways from the group experience

  • Take-Home: “Letter to Future Me” – Write a letter to be opened in six months

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