A couple in crisis seeks help with communication
- Brian Stoll
- Jul 10, 2013
- 2 min read
The Volunteers of America DRC serving Snohomish and Island counties faced a challenging situation when they learned that separated parents, Misty and Michael, were communicating by passing notes through their children. Read their story.
Communication breakdown
Misty and Michael were married for six years and separated for the past two years. Both parents were determined to be actively involved in raising their two adorable little boys. As their relationship deteriorated, Misty and Michael stopped talking to one another and resorted to communicating by passing notes back and forth through their children.
Unfortunately, mediators at the DRC often encounter this type of communication breakdown, when people who once were close lose the ability to communicate after the relationship sours.
The parents begin to talk
Once they started mediation Misty and Michael reached a few basic agreements. It was hard work, the couple needed to address some important issues in their past before they were able to look to the future. And even then, they were looking at a future apart—but hopefully unified, for the sake of their two sons.
After their initial mediation, the parents achieved a preliminary agreement. They scheduled a second mediation a month out to give them time to see how their parenting plan was working before finalizing the plan and making it permanent.
A second session leads to productive peace
During Misty and Michael’s second session they worked really well with the mediators’ assistance and completed the parenting plan to be filed with the courts. To transition from passing notes through their children to having face-to-face discussions about bedtimes and routines was a huge success for Misty and Michael. Going forward, the parents agreed to meet every six months to revisit their schedule and plan and talk together—face-to-face.
Mediation can work wonders
If you’re facing a communication breakdown, contact the Volunteers of America DRC at 1-800-280-4770. Or, view our Membership Directory to locate a DRC in your area.
Relationships can suffer greatly when there is a breakdown in communication, and asking for assistance is a wise first move. It's interesting that knowing workplace dynamics can occasionally provide insights. While looking into HR assignment help, I discovered that HR dispute resolution techniques can also help couples regain trust and strengthen their emotional bond.
This was such a thoughtful read. It really shows how small misunderstandings can grow if not talked through. Working with a book publishing company, I’ve seen how communication shapes not just stories but relationships too. It’s a powerful reminder that being open and truly listening to each other can make all the difference when things get tough.
Great post on the importance of communication in relationships. Similarly, just as clear communication is vital in personal life, Ottawa resume writing services help professionals effectively communicate their skills and experience to potential employers. Both require clarity to make a lasting impact
It’s heartbreaking when children become messengers for parents in conflict. Misty and Michael’s journey shows that progress is possible. Just like personal statement writing help UK guides students, mediation helped them find their voice again.
It’s sad when communication breaks down like that. In my work with a CV writing service, I’ve learned that clear, respectful communication can solve many issues—whether in careers or personal relationships.