April 22 eNews The AFCC eNEWS is the monthly e-newsletter of the Association of Family and Conciliation Courts. The eNEWS provides up-to-date information for professionals including practice tips, international news, and the latest initiatives in family law and conflict resolution. Views expressed by contributors are their own and not necessarily those of AFCC or its leadership. The AFCC eNEWS is provided at no charge to you; anyone can subscribe. AFCC eNews
April 22 Ask the Experts Ruth Ouzts Moore, PhD Breaking the Cycle: Mental Health and Resilience in High-Conflict Divorce Divorce is often a highly stressful life event that can significantly disrupt the stability of a family. When parents separate, they frequently encounter major changes in financial arrangements, household responsibilities, living conditions, childcare, and visitation schedules. In many cases, one partner may be more emotionally prepared for the actual divorce, having experienced an “emotional divorce” long before the legal process began. As a result, the other partner may feel shocked, betrayed, or blindsided. These intense emotional reactions can contribute to heightened conflict and more complex family dynamics, potentially exacerbating mental health concerns—particularly for individuals with a prior history of psychological difficulties. Thus, it is essential to support clients in finding purpose and meaning during this transition. Beyond simply adapting to a new reality, clients benefit from developing resilience and the capacity to move forward in a healthy, constructive manner. Here are 10 important considerations when working with clients who have mental health concerns and are involved in high-conflict divorce.
April 22 President's Message Hon. Dolores A. Bomrad (Ret.), AFCC President April 2026 President's Message May 30, 2025, feels both like eons ago and like yesterday. That day, at the 62nd Annual AFCC Conference in New Orleans, our remarkable Past President, Professor Michael Saini, handed me the AFCC Presidential Gavel. In truth, that was the first and last time I held it. It has been under repair ever since, which still makes me laugh. I may not have had the gavel in my possession, but I certainly cherished what it represented: the opportunity to learn the inner workings of this extraordinary organization, meet more of our members and colleagues in collaborating organizations, preside over the countless programs and initiatives under way at AFCC, and keep learning every step of the way.