March 03, 2026

Addiction and Divorce: Protecting Yourself, Your Kids & Your Finances

37 minutes

In this eye-opening episode, Leah Hadley welcomes Liesel Darby—mediator, divorce coach, and former addiction therapist—to tackle the complex intersection of addiction and divorce. Drawing on both professional expertise and personal experience, Leah Hadley and Liesel Darby shine a light on the realities families face when addiction enters the picture, discuss the impact on finances and relationships, and explore practical ways to protect yourself and your children.

Key Topics Covered:

Leah Hadley shares her personal connection to the topic through her family’s struggle with addiction.

Liesel Darby outlines her background in addiction treatment and explains why “addiction is addiction,” regardless of whether it's alcohol, drugs, gambling, or sex.

The codependency dynamic—and why it’s so hard, but so important, to not become a rescuer.

Signs that your spouse or co-parent might be struggling with addiction, including subtle behavioral changes and financial red flags.

The importance of documentation when navigating divorce with an addicted spouse.

Co-parenting and parallel parenting strategies for families impacted by addiction.

Safety-first mindset: protecting yourself and your children, with specific recommendations for legal and practical safeguards.

Coping with financial instability and loss of trust when addiction threatens your family’s foundation.

Where to find support: resources like Al-Anon, Nar-Anon, Gamble-Anon, S-Anon, plus the value of therapy and divorce coaching.

The crucial message: You are not alone, and there is no shame in seeking help.

Support Resources Mentioned:

Al-Anon—for families of alcoholics

Nar-Anon—for families dealing with narcotics addiction

Gam-Anon—for families of compulsive gamblers

S-Anon—for families of those struggling with sex addiction

Connect with Liesel Darby:

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 440-545-1001

Schedule an free informational call: Complimentary Info Call

Connect with Intentional Divorce Solutions:

IG: https://www.instagram.com/intentionaldivorcesolutions/

LI: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leahahadley/

YT: www.youtube.com/@IntentionalDivorceInsights

Download our free divorce checklist at https://www.greatlakesdfs.com/divorce-checklist.

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By Leah Hadley, AFC, CDFA, MAFF

1313 ratings