Exploring the Impact of Divorce through the Lens of Childhood Attachment

Description: Divorce can profoundly impact children, often resulting in trauma depending on how the situation is handled. This presentation delves into the intricate effects of divorce on children's attachment, offering mental health professionals' vital insights into these dynamics. Participants will receive an overview of children's attachment styles and how these are affected by divorce. The session will cover crucial topics such as parent alienation and parentification, providing a comprehensive understanding of these challenges. Attendees will learn practical parent interventions to support their clients effectively. Additionally, the presentation will introduce creative interventions designed to engage children and teens during the therapeutic process, helping them navigate their emotions and rebuild their lives after divorce. This session is essential for counselors seeking to deepen their expertise and enhance their therapeutic toolkit when working with children affected by divorce.

This event is sponsored by FMHCA, an NBCC-Approved Continuing Education Provider. FMHCA NBCC Provider# 2058. Programs that do not qualify for NBCC credit are clearly identified.  FMHCA is solely responsible for all aspects of the program. This course is approved by the Florida Board of Clinical Social Work, Marriage and Family Therapy and Mental Health Counseling, LMHC, LMFT, LCSW – FMHCA CE Broker #: 50-748

Learning Objectives:

1. Explain the various attachment styles in children and how these styles manifest in their behavior and relationships.
2. Describe the concepts of parent alienation and parentification and their implications on children's emotional and psychological well-being.
3. List practical parent interventions that can be taught to clients to support their children's adjustment and emotional health post-divorce
4. Demonstrate creative therapeutic interventions designed to engage children and teens in the healing process after experiencing divorce.

Ara Mascarenas, LMHC (she/her) is the owner of Rising Stronger Counseling. Ara is passionate about working with children and teens who struggle with depression, anxiety, OCD, Eating Disorders and attachment issues. She also enjoys helping adolescents and young adults with difficult life transitions such as divorce, college, or traumatic experiences. She has worked with this population in various settings including schools, treatment centers, and private practice. She is also passionate about working with BIPOC individuals and offers services in both English and Spanish.