Mediate Michigan

If there is one holiday that is universally celebrated in our country, it is Thanksgiving. Its meaning is simple yet profound. It kicks off our holiday season, and any religion, race or ethnicity is invited to attend. It is representative of the family unit, and it recalls memories from our childhoods. Yet, even with all its positive symbolism, enduring it during and after a breakup or divorce can be extremely challenging.

A therapist in private practice, I work double time during November and December as my divorced clients grapple with complex feelings and logistics surrounding the holidays. For instance, Steven spent every Thanksgiving with his ex wife’s family. His parents live across the country and due to his busy job, he only has Thanksgiving Day off. He’s terrified of being alone and ashamed to ask any friends for an invite. My client Julie’s children will be with her ex this year, and she is not close to her nuclear family. She fears that her recovery will be jeopardized if she visits them without the protection or distraction of her kids.

via Rachel A. Sussman, LCSW: Creating New Traditions for Thanksgiving and the Holidays.