5 Resources for Those Navigating Divorce and Breakups

The dissolution of a serious relationship is a life-changing event that can be incredibly difficult and confusing. Though moving on can be a slow and challenging process, help is available. In no particular order, here are some relationship experts, therapists, and programs dedicated to guiding people through this tough time.

Coming in at #1, DivorceCare is a program of Church Initiative aimed at connecting people navigating this new time in their lives. Thousands of DivorceCare support groups meet weekly around the world and are led by knowledgeable, compassionate individuals who understand what people are going through.

During the first part of the meeting, members of each DivorceCare group watch a video seminar featuring experts on divorce and recovery subjects. After viewing the video, participants spend time as a support group, discussing what is going on in each other's lives. Members can also sign up to receive daily email encouragement.

#2 on our list is Dr. Karen Finn, a divorce coach, life coach, and writer. She works with people in all phases of separation, from individuals who have given up completely to couples who want to save their relationships. When her marriage ended in 2002, she struggled with feelings of uncertainty, loneliness, anger, and sadness before finally moving on and reclaiming her happiness.

Now she helps others to move on from the repercussions of their divorces and find the direction they need to be confident and happy again. She offers personalized, private coaching as well as group workshops. Her book __ "On the Road from Heartbreak to Happiness" provides a step-by-step guide to healing.

At #3 is Mend, an app for heartbreak that guides people through breakups. For founder Elle Huerta, the program's philosophy is inspired by the Japanese art of kintsugi, where shattered pottery is mended with gold so that the cracks are illuminated, not hidden. The belief is that the pottery is more beautiful for having been broken, and Huerta's philosophy is that the same can be true of broken hearts.

Mend's self-care activities are based on research and each person's experience is customizable. Users can get support from relationship experts as well as from fellow members of the app's community via discussion channels. There are also numerous classes on relationship-themed topics, including "Getting Clarity," "Manifesting Love," and "Dating Again After Heartbreak."

At #4, Rachel A. Sussman, LCSW is a licensed psychotherapist, relationship expert, writer, and lecturer. She is the founder of Sussman Counseling, a psychotherapy practice based in New York City, specializing in treating couples and individuals with relationship dilemmas. She is the author of "The Breakup Bible: The Smart Woman's Guide to Healing from a Breakup or Divorce."

Sussman provides mental health services, including in-person, telephone, and video counseling sessions for individuals and couples. Recognized nationally as an authority on relationships, she has been featured in numerous media outlets, including NPR, The Washington Post, and The New York Times. She also consults with companies to discuss, predict, and interpret relationship trends.

#5 is Rediscovering U, which provides education and support for women transitioning through a divorce and into a new life. It was founded by Barb Greenberg, a divorce transition specialist and author of the books "Hope Grew Round Me" and "After the Ball: A Woman's Tale of Reclaiming Happily Ever After."

No matter what stage a person is at in the divorce process, Rediscovering U offers the opportunity to attend local classes where participants can meet face to face, share their stories, and learn from top experts within a safe, informal atmosphere. The program's online resources offer additional education, support, and helpful insights into the journey of divorce.