collaborative guest post
Navigating the emotional and logistical challenges of separation and divorce can be daunting for families, particularly when children are involved. In Ireland, a comprehensive network of support services is available to assist families through this difficult transition. From professional counselling and therapeutic interventions to peer support programs and mediation services, these resources aim to provide emotional support, practical guidance, and stability for both parents and children.
Here are some of the main options to consider, should you or your children need help.
Counselling and Therapy Services
If your child is showing signs of distress following a separation or divorce, it’s a good idea to consider the range of counselling and therapy services available. This is particularly advisable if you are going through a contested divorce, where there is acrimony between you and your spouse. The options include the following.
Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS)
CAMHS provides assessment and treatment for children and adolescents experiencing mental health difficulties, including those affected by parental separation or divorce. CAMHS offers therapeutic interventions such as individual counselling, family therapy, and group support to help children manage their emotions, develop coping strategies, and improve their mental well-being. Referrals to CAMHS are typically made through a GP or healthcare professional, ensuring that children receive the specialised care they need during challenging family transitions.
Private Child Psychologists and Therapists
There are many private practitioners who specialise in child and adolescent therapy in Ireland. Options include play therapy, cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT), as well as group family therapy. Directories such as the Psychological Society of Ireland (PSI) website provide listings of qualified child psychologists. Online platforms like the Irish Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (IACP) also offer searchable databases to locate accredited therapists specialising in child and adolescent mental health.
Support Organisations and Helplines
In addition to professional counselling services, there are also a range of support organisations and helplines in Ireland that may be invaluable to you and your children. This includes:
Barnardos
Barnardos supports children experiencing separation or divorce by providing specialised counselling and emotional support. They offer one-on-one therapy sessions to help children process their feelings and develop coping strategies. Additionally, Barnardos provides resources and advice for parents to better support their children during this challenging time. Their services aim to ensure children feel heard, understood, and less isolated, promoting their overall well-being and resilience.
ISPCC Childline
ISPCC Childline helps children dealing with separation or divorce by offering a free, confidential listening service available 24/7 via phone, text, and online chat. Trained volunteers provide emotional support, allowing children to express their feelings and concerns in a safe, non-judgmental environment. Childline also offers advice and coping strategies to help children navigate the emotional challenges of their parent's separation or divorce, ensuring they feel supported and understood.
Rainbows Ireland
Rainbows Ireland helps children by providing structured peer support programmes in schools and community centres. These programs offer a safe space for children to share their experiences and feelings with peers going through similar situations. Facilitators guide activities and discussions that help children understand and process their emotions, build resilience, and develop healthy coping mechanisms. Rainbows Ireland aims to ensure children feel supported and less isolated during the challenging times of family change.
Government and Health Services
There are several government programmes and agencies to consider contacting to provide support to your family. Notable services include:
Tusla, the Child and Family Agency
Tusla helps families by offering a range of support services including counselling, family support programs, and mediation. They provide resources and guidance to help parents and children navigate the emotional and practical challenges of separation. Tusla's services aim to ensure the well-being of children, promote positive parenting, and facilitate effective co-parenting arrangements, helping families adjust to changes while maintaining a stable and supportive environment for the children.
The Health Service Executive (HSE)
The HSE helps families by providing access to primary care psychology services for children and adolescents. These services offer assessment, counselling, and therapeutic support to address emotional and behavioural issues arising from family changes. The HSE also provides information and resources to parents on managing the impact of separation on children. Referrals to these services are typically made through GPs or other healthcare professionals, ensuring that families receive appropriate and timely support.
Need to speak to someone right away?
These are just a few of the services in Ireland providing support to families dealing with the challenges of a separation or divorce. If you are struggling yourself and need assistance, you can talk to someone right now at Parentline. Visit their website here for details.
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