Before a decision and after separation
A decision to divorce rarely appears out of nowhere. It may follow accumulated conflict, loss of trust, infidelity, distance or a feeling that you have lost yourself in the relationship. You do not need to arrive with a final answer. We can begin with what feels painful, frightening or unclear.
About your counsellor
I am a systemic family psychotherapist and psychologist with more than 25 years of experience in relationships, and a human relationships coach. I am an accredited clinical psychologist, Russia, and a certified EMDR practitioner, Europe. I work with concerns before divorce, separation and changes within a family. My role is to help you clarify your own decision, navigate this period with care and preserve respect for yourself.
If you have children, we can discuss your role as a parent, communication with your former partner and arrangements that consider your children’s needs. I work with adults and do not provide counselling for children.
Experience, education and methods →
Ways I can support you
Individual counselling
We explore personal experiences, fear of being alone, guilt, loss of trust and uncertainty. We consider what is within your control and which decisions fit your values.
Support during divorce and separation
We work with emotional strain, anxiety and recurring thoughts, while paying attention to sleep, restoring energy, relationships with others and rebuilding a sense of stability.
Preparing to speak with your partner
We explore the fear of a difficult conversation and emotional barriers. We clarify what you want to say, which boundaries matter and how you can prepare emotionally.
How the work unfolds
We begin by discussing your situation and goals, then choose a suitable way of working. You can attend individually even if your partner does not wish to participate. If you want to come together, we first discuss whether joint sessions suit your circumstances. As we continue, we review your goals and the changes you notice in everyday life.
Psychological support does not replace legal advice about divorce, property or agreements.
Questions about divorce
Why is it important to talk about divorce?
A conversation may help clarify a decision and future arrangements while preserving respect where possible. Discussing your ongoing responsibilities is particularly relevant when you have children together.
How can I prepare for a conversation about divorce?
Clarify your goals, feelings and boundaries beforehand. In counselling, we can explore fear, guilt and ways to express your position without escalating conflict.
What can I do after divorce?
Pay attention to emotional and physical wellbeing, everyday routines and support from others. We can explore your feelings, rebuilding stability and initial steps towards a new chapter.
Which psychological aspects matter?
Fear of the future or new relationships, concern about repeating old patterns, guilt towards a partner or children, low mood and self-doubt. The combination of experiences is different for each person.
Is there a universal script for the conversation?
Articles can offer guidance, but your circumstances matter. If there are threats or violence, safety and suitable specialist support take priority.
What is the consultation fee?
Fees are agreed individually, depending on your request. We discuss the format and payment arrangements before the work begins.
Client testimonials
Clients’ personal experiences. Translated from testimonials on Elena’s earlier Russian website.
I.
I will never stop thanking God for meeting you at the right time, Elena. I want to live separately from my husband and understand whether I have done everything I can to preserve our relationship and change things. Is it even within my power to turn this situation around? When can we continue our sessions?
B.
I think that, with your help, I will work through the remaining “bugs” in my mind. And the world will be different! I am solving my problems piece by piece — it took me six months to come to you! Now I understand how helpful our sessions are! I really want to tell everyone: “Do not let your partners define who you are!” It feels as though I can breathe more easily! Thank you so much!
R.
I had enormous difficulty falling asleep! I was very worried about my relationship: everything was falling apart, I kept going over thoughts about myself and everything else, I could not sleep, and work stopped going well. I have managed to get through it. For two months now I have been falling asleep well, without that anxiety. With your help, Elena, things seem to be stabilising and falling into place! Thank you so much — it has been very helpful!
S.
Our meetings really helped me out of depression. They became an extra push, a source of motivation and a tool for my transformation — and those are not empty words!
L.
What makes me happy, and what is my success now? I have quite a lot of time alone. When I am alone, I can feel myself. When I am with other people, I often lose that sense of myself, especially now with my husband, who has long felt like an ex to me. Particularly after his affair — and, as I discovered, there was more than one. It matters to me to feel connected to myself again! Thank you for helping me get that back! It is beyond valuable!
A.
Good afternoon, Elena! I spent a long time reflecting on our conversation and the questions you asked. You helped me realise that my problem can be resolved and that everything is temporary. Thank you for making it possible for me to trust you, tell you what was troubling me, and both cry and laugh. This was my first experience of seeking this kind of help. Thanks to you, I have positive feelings and am beginning to believe in myself and my ability to cope with the situation! Thank you! With respect, A.
Each testimonial describes an individual experience.
You can start with a conversation
A free introduction of up to 15–20 minutes gives us a chance to discuss your request and the format. Fees are agreed individually, depending on your request.