Our Psychologists have availability for face-to-face and online appointments for adults, adolescents and children.
Our Psychologists have availability for face-to-face and online appointments for adults, adolescents and children.
Adjustment to separation or divorce in children refers to how they cope with the emotional and practical changes that come when their parents split up. Kids might feel sad, angry, anxious or confused, and some may act out, become withdrawn or struggle with routines. How well they adjust depends on their age, personality, the level of conflict between parents, and the support they receive. With the right help, most children can adapt over time. Treatment for adjustment to separation or divorce usually involves support from a psychologist to help children understand their feelings, develop healthy coping strategies, and feel secure during the transition, while also guiding parents to create a calm, supportive environment.
If these signs persist or start to interfere with day-to-day life, it may be worth seeking support. A psychologist can help children work through these challenges in a safe, supportive space.
Frequent sadness, worry, or mood swings
Especially towards one or both parents
Acting out, withdrawing, or regressing (e.g., bedwetting, clinginess)
Trouble concentrating, drop in school performance
Sleeping too much or too little, eating more or less
Headaches, tummy aches, or other stress-related symptoms
Feeling torn between parents or pressured to “take sides”
Needing constant reassurance or showing separation anxiety
About 1 in 5 Australian children experience parental separation before age 18
Kids from separated families are twice as likely to face serious mental health issues
Nearly half of Australian divorces involve children, and most adjust well over time
High-conflict separations affect up to 1 in 4 kids and raise the risk of long-term difficulties
When parents separate or divorce, it’s not just a legal or logistical change—it can deeply impact a child’s emotional and physical wellbeing. Research is clear: while many children adjust over time, the process can be challenging, and some need extra support. The good news? There are effective, evidence-based ways to help.
Studies have shown that children of separated or divorced parents are more likely to experience psychological distress, including anxiety, depression, anger, and behavioural issues. These emotional difficulties often go hand-in-hand with physical symptoms like trouble sleeping, appetite changes, and stress-related health concerns.
This kind of stress response isn’t just “acting out”—it’s a normal reaction to a significant life change. Children are trying to make sense of their world shifting, and it can show up in many ways, especially if there’s ongoing conflict or uncertainty in their day-to-day environment.
Although research in this area is still growing, there’s increasing evidence that holistic treatment for adjustment to separation/divorce in children—supporting both emotional and physical wellbeing—is the most effective approach.
One standout program highlighted in the research is the New Beginnings Program. This intervention provides group support for mothers and children post-divorce and has been shown to reduce children’s mental health problems, behaviour issues, and even substance use years later. The program focuses on parenting strategies, emotional support, and helping families create a safe, stable environment—exactly the kind of wraparound care that makes a difference.
More broadly, effective treatment often involves:
Child-centred psychological support – helping kids process emotions and learn healthy coping skills
Parent coaching – equipping parents with strategies to reduce conflict and improve co-parenting
Routine and stability – creating consistent daily life to help children feel safe and secure
Open communication – using age-appropriate language to explain what’s happening and reassure kids they’re loved
One key message from the research is that early intervention matters. Children who receive support early—especially in the first 6–12 months following separation—are more likely to adjust well and avoid longer-term emotional or behavioural problems.
Seeking professional support, such as working with a child psychologist, can make all the difference. At MindBox Psychology, we offer evidence-based treatment for adjustment to separation/divorce in children, tailored to each child’s unique experience and family situation.
*Summary based on: “Exploring the Effects of Divorce on Children’s Psychological and Physiological Wellbeing” (2023), available via ResearchGate.
Daily structure helps kids feel safe and settled.
Encourage talking, drawing, or playing to process emotions.
Keep adult issues between adults—kids need to feel free to love both parents.
Clinical Psychologist, Director of MindBox Psychology
Our psychologists are highly qualified, holding Master’s or Doctorate degrees in Clinical Psychology. We provide treatment for children and families adjusting to separation and divorce using Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and other evidence-based treatments like Mindfulness & Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT).
Hours: Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm
For our latest updates, subscribe below
