28 - From Conflict to Collaboration: Choosing Respect in Divorce with Melissa Lenon, LMFT

High Vibe Divorce Podcast:  28 - From Conflict to Collaboration: Choosing Respect in Divorce Featuring Melissa Lenon, LMFT

Host: Melissa Wheeler Farag, Divorce Mediator

Episode Overview:

Welcome to High Vibe Divorce! In this episode, host Melissa Wheeler Farag sits down with Melissa Lenon, LMFT, a licensed marriage and family therapist specializing in divorce, co-parenting challenges, and life transitions. They discuss how shifting from conflict to collaboration can create a healthier divorce process and set the stage for more positive co-parenting relationships.

This episode also highlights Divorce with Respect Week—an annual initiative dedicated to promoting amicable, dignified, and private divorce resolutions through collaborative methods. Listeners will learn about the benefits of collaborative divorce, the role of divorce coaches, and how mental health professionals can support families through this major life change.

Episode Highlights:

• Affirmation of the Day: "All is well. Everything is working out for my highest good. Out of this situation, only good will come. I am safe." — Louise Hay
• Meet the Guest: Melissa Lenon, LMFT, licensed mental health professional with extensive experience in divorce coaching, parenting plans, and collaborative divorce.
• What is Collaborative Divorce?
  • A structured, out-of-court process aimed at reducing conflict and fostering open communication.
  • Involves attorneys, financial specialists, mental health professionals, and divorce coaches.
  • Encourages respectful co-parenting and ensures both parties maintain control over the outcome.
  • Attorneys sign an agreement to withdraw if litigation is pursued, incentivizing cooperation.
• Divorce with Respect Week 2025:
  • Scheduled for March 3-9, 2025.
  • Provides free 30-minute consultations with professionals, including attorneys, mental health experts, and financial advisors.
  • Offers a national platform to educate individuals on non-adversarial divorce options.
  • More information available at divorcewithrespectweek.com.
• The Mental Health Impact of Divorce:
  • Collaborative divorce helps de-escalate conflict and supports emotional regulation.
  • Importance of professional guidance in parenting plans and co-parenting communication.
  • Addressing high-conflict divorce cases and the long-term effects on children.
• Advice for Those Facing a High-Conflict Divorce:
  • Steps to navigate a contentious divorce when one party refuses to engage in collaborative efforts.
  • The value of coaching to improve personal resilience and communication.
  • Recognizing and managing dynamics with high-conflict or narcissistic personalities.
• Building a Divorce Support Team:
  • Importance of involving financial specialists, therapists, and legal professionals.
  • How a well-rounded team can improve both the emotional and logistical aspects of divorce.

Resources & Links:

• Melissa Lenon, LMFT: MyDivorceCoach.net | Email: [e-mail]
• High Vibe Mediation: HighVibeMediation.com
• Divorce with Respect Week: DivorceWithRespectWeek.com
• Collaborative Practice California: CP-Cal.org

Connect with Melissa Wheeler Farag:

• Website: HighVibeMediation.com
• Instagram: @highvibemediation
• Podcast Instagram: @highvibediv