CDC CERTIFICATION and our independence

As divorce coaching has grown, there’s been a surge of new titles, associations, and accreditation bodies appearing almost overnight. Some are thoughtful. Others are clearly business models first. I chose the CDC Certified Divorce Coach® Program deliberately because it is established, independent, and grounded in real practice, not trend-driven credentialing.

The CDC program was established in 2011, making it one of the earliest and longest-standing divorce coaching certification programs in the field. It was built specifically for divorce coaching, not adapted later from another profession, and it has trained coaches across Canada, the US, the UK, Australia, and beyond.

The CDC is a divorce-specific certification, not a general life coaching credential rebranded for divorce work. Its training is designed exclusively around the realities of separation and divorce.This credential stands out because it includes the elements a serious divorce coaching program should have:

• Mentored, live training with structured practice and direct feedback
• Observed coaching sessions, with instructors and peers providing guidance and critique
• Practical, divorce-specific frameworks grounded in real client scenarios
• Built-in professional community and ongoing development, not one-and-done certification
• A formal Code of Ethics and Practice Standards
• Recognition for continuing education through the International Coaching Federation (ICF)

I actively encourage clients to work with qualified lawyers and to obtain independent legal advice at the appropriate stages. Legal advice is essential. Clear boundaries make it effective.

When roles are respected:

• Lawyers focus on legal advice and representation
• I focus on clarity, preparation, and decision support
• Clients use legal time more intentionally
• Resolution happens faster, with lower overall cost

Different roles. Clear boundaries. Better outcomes.