The Fraser Center home

Helping Children Cope with Divorce Seminar

Adults who file for divorce in Bryan, Evans, Liberty, Long, McIntosh or Tattnall counties and have children who are under eighteen years old are required to attend a three-hour seminar on helping their children cope with divorce before proceedings can be finalized. Like many other judicial circuits throughout Georgia, Atlantic circuit administrators require the seminar designed to help parents assist their children in what is often a very stressful transition. In addition to divorce, the seminar can also be required of parents involved in change of custody, separate maintenance, visitation modification, or legitimating.

A divorce creates many changes in the lives of all involved, especially children. One way of living (often the only way the child has known) is ending, and there is anxiety about the future. For a parent, the divorce also requires many adjustments. Despite the turmoil in a parent's life, he or she continues to have the responsibility to assist their children in growth and development.

Parents can help their children meet the challenges that divorce brings by understanding the process from a child's perspective. By knowing how youngsters feel about divorce and understanding normal reactions they may have to it, parents are better able to help their children transition to the changes that accompany divorce.

Ultimately, the goal of this seminar is to help children and parents understand and adjust to the changes experienced and set the stage for future family growth.

Topics include:

  • How families experience divorce
  • Typical reactions of children
  • Specific needs of children based on developmental stage
  • Skills that help children cope
  • Pitfalls to avoid
  • Parenting and communication skills

Please note: While this seminar provides parents with valuable information to help their children cope with the stress of divorce, it is not a therapy or counseling session and should not be considered a substitute for same. If you feel you or your child is unable to cope adequately, professional help may be indicated and is available through the Fraser Center. Please call for an appointment.

Location and Schedule

Fraser Counseling Center
203 Mary Lou Drive
Hinesville
(912)369-7777

  • 1st and 2nd Wednesday of each month, 6:00 pm - 9:00 pm
  • 1st and 2nd Saturday of each month, 9:00 am - 12 noon

Schedules may vary due to nationally observed holidays. Sessions begin promptly at stated start time. Participants should arrive approximately 15 minutes early to check in and must bring $30 cash or money order payable to the Fraser Center. No personal checks or credit cards are accepted. Certificates are not issued to late arrivals. Attendance is required of both parents within 31 days of service upon the defendant. After satisfactorily completing the seminar, each participant will receive a certificate which will confirm attendance to the court. Child care is NOT provided. Please do not bring children to the seminar.