Divorce is a complicated process where the couple has to pass through difficult thoroughfares like legal challenges. To address the emotional aspects of divorce doulas have emerged offering support to divorcing couples.

According to a report published in The Guardian, Madeline Tuckfield and Courtney Cooper founders of Divorce Doulas started providing coaching sessions and online courses to guide individuals through high-conflict divorces drawing on their own experiences in family law and divorce in 2021.

The role of divorce doulas is to offer emotional and practical assistance during a challenging life transition. While they come from various backgrounds there are no formal qualifications required.

Tuckfield emphasizes the value of informal education based on personal experiences. Divorce doulas do not provide legal advice but help clients understand the legal system and offer support beyond what a lawyer or therapist might provide.

During divorce, individuals often face isolation due to shame or judgment making the support of divorce doulas valuable. Despite potential additional expenses divorce doulas argue that their guidance can save money on legal fees by educating clients on what matters in court. They assist in navigating communication difficulties with ex-partners, a service often outside the scope of attorneys.

Divorce doulas like Claire Edwards in Louisiana keep their legal and doula practices separate. Edwards, an attorney turned divorce doula recognized the logistical challenges her legal clients might face and trained as a life coach to offer additional support.

Divorce coach Melissa Kalil who also identifies as a divorce doula emphasizes the ability to share personal experiences in coaching and providing clients with valuable insights.

Clients like Harper (pseudonym) appreciate the support of divorce doulas who have undergone similar experiences. Divorce doulas may reduce legal costs and offer unique assistance in day-to-day interactions easing the emotional toll of divorce.

American Bar Association recognizes divorce coaching as a valid conflict resolution process and the concept of divorce doulas is gaining acceptance.

Coaches and doulas argue that their services fill a unique role providing support that friends and family may not be able to offer during a challenging season.