Finding Your Way Through Separation When Children Are Not Involved
By Michelle Garneau
Separation brings change to every part of life — routines, social relationships, finances and self-identity. Sometimes people assume the separation process with be simpler when children are not involved. In fact, separation in these situations can still be deeply painful and complicated in its own way.
When parents separate, figuring out a parenting schedule and who will make decisions becomes the priority. In a separation without children, former partners find themselves facing personal, emotional and financial matters head-on. This can mean figuring out matters such as - how to start over when your lives were closely intertwined, how to create healthy distance without causing hostility or how to divide your home and finances. This can be very overwhelming.
In the early stages of separation, it is common to feel a mix of grief, anger, and uncertainty. You may miss the comfort of companionship even if you know separation was the right choice. Family and friends want the best for you and may inadvertently pressure you to move on with your life quickly – remember, healing takes time. It is okay to slow down, reflect, and make well thought out choices that support your long-term well-being.
Dividing assets, handling joint debts, or dealing with a lease or mortgage, can create emotionally charged situations between you and your former partner. Mediation can provide structure and relief. A trained family mediator creates a neutral space where both of you can discuss practical details respectfully and reach clear agreements. This process allows you to maintain privacy and control, avoiding the stress and cost of going to court.
The tone you set during separation matters even if you will not be raising children together. Calm, transparent communication can help preserve mutual respect whether you remain in occasional contact because you have adult children and grandchildren together or you choose to part completely. Mediation often helps former partners end their relationship more amicably, reducing resentment and finding peace of mind.
Going through separation can also become a time of rediscovery. Many people find themselves reconnecting with old interests, friends, and goals that were set aside during the relationship. By approaching the practical and emotional sides of separation with compassion, you make space for new beginnings that feel right for you.
If you’re navigating separation without children, remember that your situation still deserves support, clarity, and respect. Mediation can help you move forward with confidence, a sense of well-being and hope for the future.
Michelle M. Garneau
B.Sc., Registered Family Mediator | Garneau Mediation Services
📍 Office: 780.417.3119
📱 Cell: 780.499.9815
✉️ Email: michelle@garneaumediation.ca
🔗 Website: www.garneaumediation.ca
🏢 Address: 15-2016 Sherwood Drive, Sherwood Park, AB T8A 3X3
Garneau Mediation Services
📌 This article was originally published in Life Changes & Divorce Magazine Canada – Winter Issue 2025
Meet the Author - Michelle M. Garneau
Michelle Garneau, a Psychology/Biology graduate from the University of Alberta, has 17 years of experience in the workforce. She has developed communication, negotiation, and training skills through her extensive sales experience. Michelle pursued mediation training through the Alberta Arbitration and Mediation Society and has worked as a family mediator with Family Justice Services in Edmonton. She is a Board member with the Alberta Family Mediation Society and a member of various dispute resolution organizations. Michelle continues to pursue education in mediation and dispute resolution.
Note: The author, compiler and publisher do not assume and hereby disclaim any liability to any party due to these words coming from the author’s own opinion based on their experiences. This account is based on the author’s own personal experience. We assume no responsibility for errors or omissions in these articles.
