Christmas can amplify everything, grief, guilt, fear, and longing, especially when families are navigating separation or divorce. If this season feels heavier than you expected, you’re not alone.

In this piece, I explore why Christmas can be so emotionally charged after separation, how families don’t have to be “broken” post-divorce, and why there is no single right way to co-parent or celebrate.

And if this Christmas has highlighted patterns you don’t want to carry into another year, know that change is possible and support is available.

The way we approach separation and divorce is changing. Outdated, adversarial systems are giving way to conscious, collaborative, and family-focused pathways that prioritise wellbeing over warfare.

In this article, Kara Ockendon, Collaborative Family Law Facilitator and Coach, explores why it’s time to evolve beyond the old “broken family” paradigm and embrace modern approaches such as Collaborative Family Law.

Learn how conscious, compassionate, and cooperative processes are reshaping what’s possible for families—supporting not only fair outcomes, but also healing, stability, and thriving futures after separation.

When it comes to resolving separation and divorce, the process you choose matters just as much as the outcome.

In this article, Kara Ockendon, Collaborative Family Law Facilitator and Coach, explores the key differences between Collaborative Family Law and traditional Mediation and why a team-based, trauma-informed approach often leads to better long-term results for families.

Discover how collaboration supports emotional healing, stronger co-parenting, and sustainable financial agreements that serve the wellbeing of everyone involved. If you’re seeking a process that prioritises respect, communication, and conscious decision-making, this guide will help you choose the pathway that’s right for you.

When people think about separation costs, they usually focus on legal fees, but the true cost runs much deeper.

In this thought-provoking piece, Kara Ockendon shares insights from a conversation with Melbourne Financial Planner and Collaborative Professional, Jordan Vaka, revealing why the Collaborative Family Law model often saves families far more, emotionally, financially, and relationally, than traditional legal pathways ever could.

Discover how doing things differently can protect not just your assets, but your peace, your relationships, and your family’s long-term wellbeing.

Conflict after separation doesn’t just happen, it’s often fuelled by common mistakes made in moments of stress, fear, or misunderstanding.

In this article, Kara Ockendon, Collaborative Family Law Facilitator and Coach, shares the five biggest mistakes that escalate post-separation conflict and how to consciously avoid them.

Discover how emotional regulation, strategic decision-making, and trauma-informed awareness can protect your wellbeing, your finances, and your family’s future. Learn to move through separation with clarity, compassion, and confidence - no matter how challenging the dynamic may feel.

In a no-fault divorce system, infidelity doesn't legally impact property or parenting. And yet, I have noticed online comments sections come with starkly contrasting views.

Many are filled with rage and calls for punishment in the face of infidelity. And others are more detached and pragmatic.

And what I noticed was a contrast between Men and women….This got me wondering: Why do men and women seem to respond so differently to betrayal?

In this blog post, I share my insights on why infidelity might affect us differently and how to rise above the pain to create a thriving future.