Supporting co-parents

Navigating the complexities of co-parenting can be challenging, especially after separation or divorce. At Relate, we understand the emotional and practical hurdles that arise during these transitions. Our mission is to provide families with the tools they need to foster healthy and constructive relationships, ensuring the wellbeing of parents/carers and children.

We are proud to offer the Co-Parenting Every Day (CoPE) programme, a 7-session co-parenting initiative designed to equip parents/carers with essential skills and strategies. It is a bit different to the usual Relate counselling offer. Grounded in the principles of Mentalization Based Therapy (MBT), solution-focused therapy and evidence-based parenting programmes, CoPE recognises the profound impact that conflict, unhappiness and separation can have on families.

Our programme aims to help parents navigate these changes with a focus on collaboration and understanding. Parenting is hard enough without worrying about the impact of our own relationships!

• Expert Guidance: Each session is facilitated by a qualified Relate practitioner who specialises in co-parenting dynamics. You will receive personalised support tailored to your unique situation. All of our staff are experienced in supporting families and children/young people.
• Online Convenience: All sessions are conducted online, providing flexibility and accessibility that fits your busy schedule. You can choose Zoom or Teams and our team do offer evening appointments too.

• Healthy Communication: Learn techniques to express your needs and concerns effectively while fostering a positive dialogue.
• Conflict Resolution: Develop strategies to manage disagreements constructively, ensuring that conflicts do not escalate and disrupt family harmony.
• Keeping Children in Mind: Understand the importance of prioritizing your children's emotional and psychological needs during times of transition.
• Practical Resources: Collaborate on creating arrangements that work for everyone involved, promoting a stable and supportive environment for your children. Use tools to support your own self-care and the family environment.

CoPE is different to family mediation; it is a supportive framework that empowers parents to co-parent peacefully without the need for family court intervention. Our programme emphasizes co-operation, thoughtfulness and shared responsibility, enabling you to build a healthier post-separation relationship with your co-parent. We know it's really hard sometimes to imagine change or progress, and all we expect from parents/carers is to give it a try- you might just be surprised!