Topics · Nicosia
Divorce and separation
A separation changes many things at once: your home, your routine, money, your time with the children and your ties with the wider family. It is normal to feel as if the ground has shifted under you for a while.
A big change for the whole family
Divorce is not only a legal step. It is a loss, even when the decision was right or mutual. Many people go through anger, sadness, guilt, worry about the future and also relief. These feelings can arrive all together or change from one day to the next.
Children feel the change too, whatever their age. The American Psychological Association (APA) notes that most children adjust well over time, especially when parents keep conflict away from them and give them a steady routine.
Signs worth noticing
The first months are often hard, and that is expected. If any of the following lasts for weeks or gets worse, it may help to talk to a psychologist:
- Poor sleep, tiredness or changes in appetite
- Anger or bitterness that keeps you stuck in the past
- Ongoing arguments about the children or practical matters
- In children: withdrawal, outbursts, a drop at school or going back to behaviour from a younger age
- In teenagers: pulling away strongly, risky behaviour or feeling they have to take sides
For parents
Children need to hear, in simple words, what is changing and what is staying the same. They also need to know it is not their fault and that both parents will keep loving them.
A few things that usually help:
- Keeping arguments and negative comments about the other parent away from the children
- Not using children to pass messages between parents
- Keeping routines steady in both homes, as far as you can
- Giving them time to say how they feel, without pushing
How we can help
At Safe Space Psychology Center in Latsia you can come on your own, as parents, or with your children. Depending on what you need, we offer individual therapy for adults, sessions for children and teenagers, family therapy and counselling sessions for parents.
Our aim is not to take anyone's side. It is to give you room to work through what is happening and to find ways to work together as parents, even if you are no longer a couple. Sessions take place in person or online, privately or through GeSY where it applies.
Your first appointment
In the first meeting the psychologist will listen and ask what is weighing on you most right now. If the appointment is about a child, we usually start with the parents so we understand the family before we meet the child. You do not need to have the answers ready. What you share stays confidential.
When you need help straight away
If you or your children are in danger, or if someone is thinking about harming themselves or others, do not wait. Call 112 or go to the A&E department of your nearest hospital.
Frequently asked questions
Do both parents need to come?
Not necessarily. One parent can come alone. When it is possible, having both parents involved helps the child, but we will look together at what suits your situation.
How old does a child need to be to see a psychologist?
We work with children and teenagers. With younger children we often work mainly through the parents. Get in touch and we will explain the options.
Can I come if the separation happened years ago?
Yes. Sometimes feelings come up much later. There is no right time to ask for support.
Other topics we work with
Sources and further reading
- American Psychological Association: Divorce and child custody
- UNICEF: Parenting
- WHO Europe: Mental health fact sheet
This page is for information only and does not replace an assessment by a psychologist or doctor.