Family disruption brings more than legal complexities, it brings emotional upheaval that can ripple through every part of life, especially for children. Dr. Celeste Simmons, founder of Family and Forensic Solutions, has spent 15 years helping families in crisis find their footing. With deep clinical experience and a calm, practical approach, she supports parents in building healthier co-parenting dynamics that last long after the court process ends.
Shift from Conflict to Clarity
Most separated parents know the drill, arguments over pickup times, last-minute schedule changes, and a dozen other daily flashpoints. Celeste offers something different: a way to move out of constant conflict and into clearer communication.
“Try to turn your conflict into clarity,” she advises. That’s not just theory. Her method starts with something surprisingly simple: find the few things you do agree on.
“Identify three things that are really important that need to be addressed that you and your co-parents can likely probably not argue about,” Celeste explains. These might be basic but essential: school enrolment, after-school care, medical appointments. Agreeing on just a few core issues creates islands of calm in the chaos. Sure, disagreements will still happen. But finding common ground, even small patches, helps shift the dynamic from reactive to productive. “It’s about getting out of the endless argument loop and focusing on what actually matters,” she says.
Understand the Unique Needs of Your Family Dynamic
Most parenting advice assumes one-size-fits-all solutions, but families aren’t one-size-fits-all, they come in all shapes and sizes. Celeste encourages parents to take a more tailored approach.”Have you really considered if your parenting style is what your kid actually needs?” she asks. What works for one child can completely miss the mark for another. “I’ve heard lots of people say things like, that works with my oldest, but it really doesn’t work with my youngest.”
Children respond to separation differently depending on their age, personality, and emotional makeup. Your toddler isn’t your teen, and what worked before the split may not work now. “They’re different people and they need different things,” Celeste reminds parents. That’s why it’s so important to stay observant and flexible. Let your child’s needs, not your expectations, guide your parenting choices. Adapting to each child individually is one of the most powerful ways to support them through transition.
People Need to Take Care of Themselves
Self-care isn’t just a buzzword, it’s a foundation for effective parenting, especially during tough times. Celeste places this front and center.
“Make sure that you’re using your own support systems,” she urges. “Make sure that you’re spending time with friends and family or whoever it is that helps you be you.”Courts often talk about the best interests of the child, but Celeste brings the conversation back to reality: can overwhelmed, exhausted parents really serve those interests?
“We do have to think about whether or not parents are in a space where they can do that, especially if there’s just been a rupture in your family.”
You can’t pour from an empty cup. Taking care of yourself isn’t a luxury, it’s a necessity. “The more you do that, the better you’re going to be able to meet those best interests of your children,” she says. And if it still feels like an uphill battle, Celeste offers this reassurance: “If you’re a parent and you’re trying to build stability post-separation, just know that you are not alone. At Family and Forensic Solutions, we’re here to walk with you, not ahead of you.”
Connect with Dr. Celeste Simmons on LinkedIn to learn more about her work supporting families in transition.
