Divorce Happens

In this deeply validating episode of Divorce Happens, Olivia Howell is joined by therapist and perinatal mental health expert Sarah Baroud, LICSW, to discuss one of the most underrepresented and emotionally charged topics: navigating divorce during pregnancy or postpartum. Together, they shed light on the emotional weight of going through a separation while also adjusting to motherhood—a time already marked by identity shifts, hormonal changes, and extreme vulnerability.

Sarah breaks down the importance of seeking the right kind of support, including perinatal-trained therapists and peer-based community groups. She explains how this season of life often magnifies issues already present in a relationship and why having the right resources—emotional, mental, and logistical—can be a lifeline. From financial abuse to emotional neglect, this episode opens the door to tough but necessary conversations.

Whether you’re postpartum and feeling trapped or newly pregnant and questioning your relationship, this episode offers warmth, wisdom, and a path forward. Sarah reminds us that caring for yourself is caring for your child—and that you deserve support, safety, and peace. You are not alone.

Learn more about Sarah on her profile: https://www.freshstartsregistry.com/resourceguide/practice-makes-present-llc

🔗 Check out Fresh Starts Registry:

The first & only divorce registry + support platform ➡ https://www.freshstartsregistry.com/

📱 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/freshstartsregistry/

📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/FreshStartsRegistry

🎙 Podcast IG: https://www.instagram.com/divorcehappenspod/

📬 Newsletter: https://divorceguide.substack.com/

In this insightful episode of Divorce Happens, Olivia Howell sits down with real estate agent and divorced human, Emily Clancy to talk about one of the most overwhelming (and emotional) parts of divorce: figuring out where—and how—to live next. Emily shares her personal story of downsizing after divorce and offers practical, judgment-free advice for navigating the housing market as a newly single parent.

From understanding your financial picture to building a real estate team that costs nothing upfront, Emily breaks down the steps every divorcing parent should take—whether they plan to rent, sell, or buy. She also addresses the stigma around "starting over small" and reminds us that your kids don’t need a big house—they need you, safe and emotionally grounded.

This episode is your permission slip to ask questions, take your time, and prioritize you in the process. There are more options than you think—and no matter the square footage, you have the power to create a stable, loving home.

Learn more about Emily on her profile: https://www.freshstartsregistry.com/resourceguide/emily-clancy-loporto-serhant

🔗 Check out Fresh Starts Registry:

The first & only divorce registry + support platform ➡ https://www.freshstartsregistry.com/

📱 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/freshstartsregistry/

📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/FreshStartsRegistry

🎙 Podcast IG: https://www.instagram.com/divorcehappenspod/

📬 Newsletter: https://divorceguide.substack.com/

In this heartfelt episode of Divorce Happens, Olivia Howell sits down with therapist and divorce expert Oona Metz to explore the healing power of community—especially through therapist-led divorce support groups. With over 15 years of experience leading these groups, Oona shares why communal healing matters, how her groups have transformed women's lives, and what makes these spaces so profoundly effective.

Oona and Olivia unpack the emotional complexity of divorce—from fear and grief to relief and empowerment—and discuss why support groups are such a powerful place to process it all. They dive into the structure of her groups, the safety and confidentiality that therapists provide, and how being in community helps women reclaim their voice, set boundaries, and feel less alone in the process.

Whether you're newly separated, knee-deep in legal battles, or years out and still processing, this episode is a loving reminder: you don’t have to go through this alone. The healing starts when you find your people—and Oona is here to show you how.

Learn more about Oona on her profile: https://www.freshstartsregistry.com/resourceguide/oona-metz-licsw

🔗 Check out Fresh Starts Registry:

The first & only divorce registry + support platform ➡ https://www.freshstartsregistry.com/

📱 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/freshstartsregistry/

📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/FreshStartsRegistry

🎙 Podcast IG: https://www.instagram.com/divorcehappenspod/

📬 Newsletter: https://divorceguide.substack.com/

In this powerful episode of Divorce Happens, Olivia Howell sits down with journalist and single mom Laura Wheatman Hill to reflect on the emotional lessons she learned post-divorce. From the quiet strength of female friendships to the unexpected joys of solo living, Laura opens up about her transformation from a traditional nuclear household to a life of self-sufficiency, travel, and self-discovery.

Laura shares how her female friendships became her emotional anchor, how the world still isn’t built for single adults, and how—despite the systems working against her—she found unexpected empowerment in living alone. With honesty, wit, and warmth, she reflects on learning to ask for help, own her space, and rewrite her life on her own terms.

If you’re in the thick of divorce or learning to live in your “after,” this episode is a heartfelt reminder that life doesn’t end with a breakup—it begins again. You’ll get through the hard part. You’re not alone. And you’re allowed to find joy in your independence.

🔗 Check out Fresh Starts Registry:

The first & only divorce registry + support platform ➡ https://www.freshstartsregistry.com/

📱 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/freshstartsregistry/

📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/FreshStartsRegistry

🎙 Podcast IG: https://www.instagram.com/divorcehappenspod/

📬 Newsletter: https://divorceguide.substack.com/

When you're navigating the emotional aftermath of divorce, movement might be the last thing on your mind—but it could be the key to healing. In this episode of Divorce Happens, Olivia Howell sits down with certified personal trainer and movement coach Rebecca Stewart to unpack the powerful connection between physical movement and emotional resilience. Together, they explore how something as simple as a 5-minute stretch or a dance in your kitchen can help complete the stress cycle and begin the process of emotional recovery.

Rebecca shares how our bodies process stress the same way they did when we were running from lions—yes, really—and how that unprocessed stress can live in our bodies for years, manifesting as pain, anxiety, or burnout. Through intentional, accessible movement, we can begin to reconnect with our bodies, build confidence, and slowly come back to ourselves after the disorienting toll of divorce. Whether it’s lifting weights, walking, or dancing around in your pajamas, movement can be your first step toward healing.

They also dive into the often-ignored link between post-divorce movement and intimacy—how reclaiming your body through strength or mobility work can lay the groundwork for confidence in future relationships. Rebecca offers both encouragement and practical tips to help you get moving again, even if you’re feeling stuck. This conversation is a reminder that movement isn’t about appearance—it’s about reclaiming your power, one breath, one step, one shake at a time.

Learn more about Rebecca on her profile: https://www.freshstartsregistry.com/resourceguide/movementfx-llc

🔗 Check out Fresh Starts Registry:

The first & only divorce registry + support platform ➡ https://www.freshstartsregistry.com/

📱 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/freshstartsregistry/

📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/FreshStartsRegistry

🎙 Podcast IG: https://www.instagram.com/divorcehappenspod/

📬 Newsletter: https://divorceguide.substack.com/

In this insightful episode of Divorce Happens, we sit down with Joanna Hulton, a licensed psychoanalyst and mental health counselor, to unravel the complexities of divorce through the lens of developmental needs and grief stages. Joanna shares her expertise on how understanding both parent and child developmental stages can significantly impact the divorce experience. With years of experience as a NY State provider of Continuing Education for Social Workers and Mental Health Counselors, Joanna sheds light on the emotional dynamics that often get overlooked during this life transition.

We dive deep into the nuances of how children at different ages process divorce and how grief stages—denial, anger, bargaining, depression, and acceptance—manifest uniquely in both parents and children. Joanna explains how unaddressed developmental needs can lead to emotional barriers and long-term challenges, while offering strategies for navigating these tough conversations with empathy and understanding. Her perspective highlights the importance of not just surviving divorce, but healing and growing through it.

Whether you’re currently going through a divorce, co-parenting, or supporting a loved one, this episode is filled with powerful insights and practical advice for embracing the emotional landscape of divorce with clarity and compassion. Tune in to gain a deeper understanding of how developmental needs and grief stages intersect, and how you can support yourself and your children through the process.

Learn more about Joanna Hulton on her profile: https://www.freshstartsregistry.com/resourceguide/joanna-hulton-phd

🔗 Check out Fresh Starts Registry:

The first & only divorce registry + support platform ➡ https://www.freshstartsregistry.com/

📱 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/freshstartsregistry/

📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/FreshStartsRegistry

🎙 Podcast IG: https://www.instagram.com/divorcehappenspod/

📬 Newsletter: https://divorceguide.substack.com/

Divorce is a time of immense change, and often, self-care is the first thing that slips away. In this episode of Divorce Happens, Olivia Howell sits down with esthetician Page Buldini to discuss the transformative power of simple skincare during life transitions. Page shares her belief that taking just 90 seconds each day for self-care can be a game-changer—not just for your skin, but for your mental and emotional well-being. Together, they explore how small, intentional moments of self-care can foster resilience and provide a sense of normalcy during even the most turbulent times.

Beyond just skincare, Page dives into the deep relationships formed between aestheticians and their clients—bonds that often become lifelines during challenging moments. She talks about how the act of caring for oneself, even in the smallest ways, serves as a radical act of empowerment. From cleansing your face to moisturizing your skin, Paige emphasizes that these daily rituals are more than just routine—they’re declarations of self-worth and resilience.

Olivia and Page also discuss the importance of finding support networks and being proud of every step forward. Page offers practical tips that make self-care approachable, even during the chaos of divorce. Whether you’re doing the bare minimum or going all out, it’s about carving out that moment for yourself. Tune in to discover how a clean face, a little moisturizer, and a lot of self-compassion can help you take back your power and move forward with confidence.

Learn more about Page on her profile: https://www.freshstartsregistry.com/resourceguide/page-aesthetics-skincare

📱 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/freshstartsregistry/

📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/FreshStartsRegistry

🎙 Podcast IG: https://www.instagram.com/divorcehappenspod/

📬 Newsletter: https://divorceguide.substack.com/

Olivia Howell (01:00):

Welcome back to Divorce Happens, the podcast where we support you before, during, and after divorce with education, inspiration, and a little bit of laughter. Because as we all know, divorce happens—and then you start fresh. Today, I'm thrilled to have with me one of our very first Fresh Starts experts, Page Buldini. Page, tell us what you do and where you're based.

Page Buldini (01:28):

Thank you! I'm so honored to be here. I am the solo owner of Page Esthetic Skin Care in Medford, Massachusetts. I'm an esthetician and a laser technician. I just love skin—all skin—and I love taking care of it.

Olivia Howell (01:47):

I love that, and I love how much you focus on empowering people through their skin. We all know what a divorce glow-up is, right? After a divorce, you feel good, you look good. But I'm really interested in talking about that messy middle period—the part where the house is a mess, you feel terrible, your skin's breaking out, and you still have to go to court and deal with your ex. How do we take care of our skin during that really tough time?

Page Buldini (02:23):

That's such a great question! I think during any big change, it's important to just take 90 seconds for yourself. I can only imagine what people are going through—the weight of it all. So, if you can just take 90 seconds to do something for yourself, it can make a huge difference. I'm a big fan of multipurpose skincare because while it's great to have 15 products, it's not always practical. One of my favorites is the One Love Organics Oil Cleanser. It's amazing because at the end of the day, you just need one pump on dirty makeup skin—no need for anything else. Add a little water, massage it in, and it removes everything: makeup, SPF, dirt—all of it. It smells beautiful with papaya enzymes, and it’s such a great way to reset.

If you’re in a safe place, just let it go down the drain and take that moment. That's 90 seconds—just two steps. Cleanser and moisturizer. If you can do that, you can tackle the next thing. It’s one less thing to worry about.

Olivia Howell (03:47):

I love that. Ninety seconds seems so doable! Take us through a typical skincare routine for someone who really doesn’t have the time.

Page Buldini (03:59):

Yes! So, it's just that: Clean your skin at night. A lot of people are firm believers in morning and nighttime routines, but if you can at least go to bed with clean skin and a moisturizer that protects your skin barrier, you’re doing great. Look for something with lipids or collagen—anything that helps rebuild. When you wake up, even just a splash of water and some SPF will make a difference. So, it’s three simple steps: cleanse, moisturize, SPF. Manageable, but effective.

Olivia Howell (04:48):

I love that! And you also do waxing, right? For me, if my eyebrows are done, I feel like I can conquer the world. Can you talk about the empowerment that comes from those little things?

Page Buldini (05:12):

Absolutely! I love my job because while I’m literally removing hair, it's really about empowerment. I’m not here to change someone; I’m here to enhance what they already have. Even a quick brow wax can make a huge difference. It’s not just about aesthetics; it’s about feeling good about yourself. There’s something really powerful about taking that time for yourself, even if it’s just 15 minutes.

Olivia Howell (05:57):

I love that. And there's also the relationship you have with your esthetician, right? I feel like mine knows everything about me!

Page Buldini (06:35):

Yes, 100%. It’s almost like therapy sometimes! People open up; they share their lives. I feel so honored to hold that space for them. What’s said in the wax room stays in the wax room. It’s a vulnerable moment, and I want my clients to feel safe, heard, and cared for. It’s more than just hair removal—it’s a moment of peace.

Olivia Howell (07:57):

That’s so beautiful, Page. For anyone listening who’s going through a divorce, what words of encouragement would you leave them with?

Page Buldini (08:50):

If you’re here listening, you’re already in the right place. Olivia, what you’ve created with Fresh Starts is incredible—a network of support that truly understands what people are going through. Be proud of yourself because you’re taking steps to create a better life for you and your family. That is so brave.

Olivia Howell (09:28):

I love that. It’s all about bravery. Page, thank you so much for sharing your wisdom and for demystifying skincare during tough times. Whether it's divorce, a job change, or just life being messy, those little moments of self-care matter. And 90 seconds? We can definitely do that.

In this insightful episode of Divorce Happens, host Olivia Howell is joined by registered dietitian Amanda Sauceda, who specializes in gut health and mindfulness. Together, they unpack the often-overlooked connection between the mind and the gut, particularly during high-stress life transitions like divorce. Amanda shares her mindful approach to gut health, offering practical nutrition tips and breathing exercises to ease digestion and promote calm during difficult moments. With a blend of science-backed strategies and community-based support, she highlights the power of balanced eating and mindfulness in maintaining well-being during tough times.

Amanda emphasizes that stress can disrupt not only mental clarity but also gut function, leading to irregular eating habits and digestive issues. She provides actionable steps for nourishing your body, even when life feels chaotic. From quick, nutrient-dense food options to the importance of community meals, Amanda encourages listeners to ask for help and find support through food and connection. Her simple yet powerful advice includes prioritizing protein, fiber, and fats, along with mindful breathing exercises before meals to aid digestion.

Closing with words of encouragement, Amanda reminds listeners that community support is not only beneficial but necessary during divorce. She shares practical ways to bring mindfulness into daily eating habits, making it easier to nourish both the mind and body. Whether you're eating alone or with friends, finding peace in the moment and embracing support can make all the difference in your journey.

Learn more about Amanda on her profile: https://www.freshstartsregistry.com/resourceguide/the-mindful-gut-llc

📱 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/freshstartsregistry/

📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/FreshStartsRegistry

🎙 Podcast IG: https://www.instagram.com/divorcehappenspod/

📬 Newsletter: https://divorceguide.substack.com/

Olivia Howell: Welcome back to Divorce Happens, the podcast where we support you before, during, and after divorce with education, inspiration, and a little bit of laughter. As we all know, divorce happens, and then you start fresh. I'm so excited to introduce you to one of our Fresh Starts experts, Amanda, who is here to talk about a topic that I don’t think gets enough attention—gut health during divorce. Amanda, can you tell us who you are and what you do?

Amanda: Hi everyone! I’m Amanda, a registered dietitian located in (not-so-sunny today) California. My specialty is gut health, and I approach it a bit differently than most. I practice what I call the "Mindful Gut," which blends science and mindfulness strategies to help people support their gut health in a way that’s balanced and nourishing.

Olivia Howell: I love that. I always send you press queries where I have no idea what the query is asking, and you come back with a dissertation. I’m like, "I don’t even know what this means, but okay!" You truly know your stuff. So, let's start with the basics. It’s no surprise that during life transitions like divorce, eating habits can really shift. What’s the connection between the mind and the gut, and what pitfalls can happen during this process?

Amanda: That’s such a great question. There’s a huge connection between the mind and the gut. I always say, how you feel mentally impacts you physically, and it often settles right in your gut. Think about when you get nervous and feel butterflies in your stomach—that's your emotions physically affecting your gut. When you’re going through something as stressful as a divorce, that stress often shows up in your digestive system. It can disrupt eating habits, and sometimes, people stop nourishing themselves properly.

Mindfulness plays a huge role in supporting gut health. It’s about being present and aware of how you’re feeling, which is incredibly important for digestion and overall well-being.

Olivia Howell: That makes so much sense. For anyone listening who’s going through a divorce and feeling a bit disconnected from eating well, what are some simple, stress-free things they can do to get back on track?

Amanda: First and foremost, make sure you’re actually eating. Stress sometimes masks hunger, and then when it does hit, we tend to reach for comfort foods, which isn’t necessarily bad but needs to be balanced. It’s really about finding that middle ground—comforting yourself with food but also getting what you need nutritionally. For example, quick, nourishing foods like soups, smoothies, pre-packaged proteins, and easy-to-digest options are perfect when you’re in survival mode.

It’s also important to approach meals with as little stress as possible. I always recommend three deep breaths before eating. It might sound simple, but it helps shift your body into a "rest and digest" mode, making it easier for your gut to process what you eat.

Olivia Howell: I love that! It’s something anyone can do, anywhere. And you mentioned pre-packaged foods—what should people look for?

Amanda: Great question! I like to make sure meals hit three major things: protein, fat, and fiber. Protein keeps you full and energized, fiber supports gut bacteria and keeps you regular, and fat helps you absorb nutrients. Trader Joe’s, for example, has great frozen options like chicken sausage, which is super easy to prep. Find what works for you—your "anchor foods." Mine is breakfast; if I don’t eat it, I don’t feel good.

Olivia Howell: That’s so true. Chicken sausage basically got me through my divorce—I ate it all the time! My kids probably never want to see it again. But I do remember not eating at all when I was stressed. What can someone do if they find themselves not eating because of the anxiety of phone calls or meetings with lawyers?

Amanda: That’s really common. In those moments, easy-to-digest foods are your best friend. Soups, smoothies, yogurts, and even string cheese with some hummus can be life-savers. When you’re in panic mode, the body is already stressed, so choosing gentle, nourishing foods helps keep things balanced.

Olivia Howell: That’s amazing advice. I also love what you said about relying on community. Sometimes just having someone there to share a meal with you, even if you’re not talking about anything serious, can make a huge difference.

Amanda: Absolutely! Community support is so underrated. If you don’t want to cook, invite a friend over and make a meal together. It brings intentionality to the moment and allows you to be present with your food and your feelings.

Olivia Howell: I love that. It’s all about rewriting the narrative and unlearning things that don’t serve us anymore. And if you’re still living with your ex and don’t want to share a meal, guess what? You don’t have to! Eat in your room, eat alone—it’s okay to prioritize your peace.

Amanda: Exactly. There are no rules for how you have to nourish yourself during this time. Find what works, breathe before meals, and take care of yourself.

Olivia Howell: Amanda, if someone is listening and wants to get in touch with you, how can they find you?

Amanda: The best way is Instagram—my handle is @guthealth.nutritionist. You can also sign up for my newsletter where I share recipes and gut health tips. I’m hoping to launch some classes soon too!

Olivia Howell: Amazing! And of course, you can also find Amanda through Fresh Starts. Amanda, thank you so much for sharing your expertise. We’re so grateful to have you as part of our community.

Amanda: Thank you so much for having me!

In this transformative episode of Divorce Happens, Olivia sits down with Terrie Alfieri to explore the empowering world of photography as a tool for healing and self-discovery after divorce. Terrie shares her insights on how empowerment photography can help individuals reclaim their sense of identity, build confidence, and embrace new beginnings. Through her work, Terrie emphasizes the importance of choosing a photographer who truly understands the journey of reinvention, ensuring each image captured reflects the true essence of the individual.

As Olivia and Terrie dive deeper, they discuss the profound impact of seeing oneself through the camera lens, often revealing hidden beauty and strength. Photography becomes more than just a moment captured—it's a celebration of resilience and self-love. Terrie highlights the significance of documenting life's transitions, not just as a memory, but as a declaration of growth and renewal.

The conversation wraps up with a message of hope and encouragement for anyone navigating the aftermath of divorce. Terrie believes that divorce is not an end but a powerful new beginning. Through the lens of a compassionate photographer, the journey of self-discovery can be beautifully immortalized, serving as a reminder of strength, beauty, and possibility.

Learn more about Terrie Alfieri on her profile: https://www.freshstartsregistry.com/resourceguide/terrie-alfieri-photography

🔗 Check out Fresh Starts Registry:

The first & only divorce registry + support platform ➡ https://www.freshstartsregistry.com/

📱 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/freshstartsregistry/

📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/FreshStartsRegistry

🎙 Podcast IG: https://www.instagram.com/divorcehappenspod/

📬 Newsletter: https://divorceguide.substack.com/

Olivia Howell (00:01): Welcome back to Divorce Happens, the podcast where we support you before, during, and after divorce with education, inspiration, and a little bit of laughter. Because as we know, divorce happens, and then you start fresh. Today, we are here with a friend and Fresh Starts expert, Terrie Alfieri. Terrie, can you tell us who you are and what you do?

Terrie Alfieri (00:19): Sure! I'm Terrie Alfieri, and I am a family connection photographer and empowerment photographer located right here in New York.

Olivia Howell (00:29): Amazing! I was so excited to get you on to talk about this in particular because we put so much emphasis on wedding photos and new baby photos, but there’s this whole part of a person’s life that comes after divorce or a major life transition. I want to talk about empowerment photography—what it is and why it’s so important. Can you share more about that?

Terrie Alfieri (00:50): Yes, I love that so much! Empowerment photography is similar to the idea of a wedding registry or a baby registry. We celebrate these life moments with photos, but there are so many other chapters in our lives that deserve to be celebrated as well. I think empowerment photography may have started with boudoir photography—where women were taking photos for themselves or their partners. But it has evolved so much since then. It’s not just about lingerie or sexy photos; it’s about celebrating who you are, especially after a big life change like divorce. It's about reinvention and really seeing yourself through a different lens.

Olivia Howell (01:30): I love that you brought up boudoir photography. I did that before my wedding, and I’m all for lingerie pictures and whatever makes you feel empowered. But I think a lot of women, myself included, after divorce, may not feel ready to do that. It almost felt like there wasn’t another option for a long time—like you could do family photos, or boudoir, but there wasn’t much in between. That’s why I love this concept of empowerment photography. Can you talk about why it's so important to have tangible photos that represent who you are during this time?

Terrie Alfieri (01:55): Absolutely! Having a memory of this time is so important because you are evolving and changing. So many people see themselves as part of a couple—as part of a unit. But during a divorce, you have to rediscover your identity. When you look at yourself through someone else’s lens, it’s so powerful. It’s not like looking in the mirror; it’s seeing yourself from a completely new perspective. Sometimes, we don’t recognize our own strength and beauty until someone captures it for us.

Olivia Howell (02:30): That’s so powerful. Rebuilding after divorce is all about building that confidence back up, and sometimes you need that visual reminder of who you are. I remember doing photos with you when we launched Fresh Starts, and it really allowed me to step into that CEO and entrepreneur role. It’s like those photos gave me permission to own that identity.

Terrie Alfieri (02:50): Yes, and that’s why finding the right photographer is so important. It’s not just about taking pictures; it’s about capturing your essence. I believe that when you find a photographer who truly sees you, the experience is transformative. For me, it’s about creating space for people to feel beautiful, strong, and authentically themselves. It’s not just a photo shoot—it’s an experience of rediscovering who you are.

Olivia Howell (03:20): I love that. And you’re based in New York, right? But you travel as well?

Terrie Alfieri (03:25): Yes! I’m based in Long Island, New York, but I travel all over the tri-state area—and even internationally! I photographed Jenny’s wedding in Scotland, and I love traveling to capture people’s journeys.

Olivia Howell (03:40): That’s amazing. We’ll link all of Terrie’s info in the show notes so people can get in touch. Before we go, if someone is listening and going through a divorce, what words of encouragement would you share with them?

Terrie Alfieri (03:55): This is such a crucial turning point in your life. The unknown is scary, but it’s also the beginning of something beautiful. You are strong, you are beautiful, and this chapter doesn’t define you. It’s part of your journey, not the end of it.

Olivia Howell (04:15): I love that. Thank you so much for being here, Terrie, and for helping people see their true selves through your lens. We appreciate you so much.

Terrie Alfieri (04:22): Thank you! I appreciate you, too. This was the best.

In this transformative episode of Divorce Happens, host Olivia Howell sits down with Ashley Mahoney, a licensed mental health counselor and certified psychedelic-assisted therapist, to explore the powerful potential of ketamine therapy for emotional healing during and after divorce. Ashley shares her expertise on how psychedelics, particularly ketamine, can help individuals reconnect with their true selves, break free from deeply ingrained trauma, and step into a new chapter with clarity and empowerment. Together, they discuss the preparation, safety, and community support essential for effective therapy, emphasizing that healing is not only possible—it's a journey worth taking.

Listeners will gain insight into the process of psychedelic-assisted therapy, its historical roots, and how it creates a safe space for women to heal relational wounds and reclaim their narratives. Ashley also details the importance of integration after therapy, where the real magic of healing continues. Olivia and Ashley reflect on the courage it takes to face one's deepest fears and the profound liberation that comes with emotional release and community support.

If you've been searching for new ways to heal from the emotional upheaval of divorce, this episode offers a fresh perspective on finding peace, connection, and self-discovery through psychedelic therapy. Tune in for an eye-opening discussion that challenges traditional narratives around healing after divorce.

Learn more about Ashley Mahoney on her profile: https://www.freshstartsregistry.com/resourceguide/arise-wellness

🔗 Check out Fresh Starts Registry:

The first & only divorce registry + support platform ➡ https://www.freshstartsregistry.com/

📱 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/freshstartsregistry/

📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/FreshStartsRegistry

🎙 Podcast IG: https://www.instagram.com/divorcehappenspod/

📬 Newsletter: https://divorceguide.substack.com/

Olivia Howell: Hello, hello, hello! Welcome back to Divorce Happens, the podcast where we support you before, during, and after divorce with education, inspiration, and a little bit of laughter—because as you know, divorce happens, and then you start fresh. Today, we’re here with one of our Fresh Starts experts, Ashley Mahoney, talking about something that not many people associate with divorce healing: psychedelic-assisted therapy. I’m thrilled to have this conversation. Ashley, can you introduce yourself and share what you do?

Ashley Mahoney: Hi, thank you! I’m Ashley Mahoney. I’m a licensed mental health counselor in Massachusetts and New Hampshire. I offer a mix of virtual and in-person sessions and specialize in EMDR, trauma therapy, and parts work to really dive deep into nervous system healing. I’m also certified in psychedelic-assisted therapy. Right now, ketamine is the only legal medicine we can use, and while it’s technically not considered a psychedelic, it’s in the same family and has been well-studied for therapeutic use.

Olivia Howell: That’s amazing. I wanted to bring you on because I recently spoke with Cindy DiTiberio, who shared her experience with ketamine therapy. She said it was the catalyst for realizing she wanted a divorce—it completely changed her perspective. She often describes her life as ‘before and after’ that moment. Every time I talk to you, I’m so fascinated by your work. Tell us, what are psychedelics? When I hear psychedelics, I think of lava lamps and Woodstock. What do they actually do for us?

Ashley Mahoney: (laughs) I could talk about that for hours, but I’ll try to sum it up. Psychedelics have been studied and used for thousands of years in indigenous cultures and healing communities. In recent decades, there’s been a resurgence in therapeutic use. Unlike substances like alcohol or cannabis that are often dissociative, psychedelics are the opposite—they take you inward. It’s about confronting your stuff, not avoiding it. That’s why it’s important to have guidance, a safe setting, and harm reduction measures in place. It’s all about set and setting—your mindset and environment dictate how the experience unfolds.

Olivia Howell: That’s fascinating. It’s like The Wizard of Oz—you go from black and white to color, and the path opens up. Let’s set the scene: I’m a woman going through a divorce, I come to Massachusetts to work with you. What does the process look like?

Ashley Mahoney: We have a few different options, including group sessions. One example is our 'Elevated Motherhood' group. Say you’re a mom who just went through a divorce, you’ve done a lot of therapy, but there’s still this stuck feeling. Ketamine isn’t technically a psychedelic; it’s an anesthetic. But researchers found it had a profound impact on depression and trauma. Ketamine pauses your default mode network, which is where all your repetitive thoughts and beliefs are stored. It quiets the noise and allows you to access parts of yourself you may not have connected with for a long time.

Olivia Howell: That’s incredible. So, people come in with an intention?

Ashley Mahoney: Exactly. It can be anything from reconnecting with joy to healing inner child wounds. We set the scene with cozy blankets, candles, and intention setting. People take their medicine, have their journey, and we don’t do integration that same day. It’s important to let the aha moments settle first. Journaling happens, and we come back the next morning to integrate. Everyone shares their journey in a non-judgmental space, and that’s where a lot of the magic happens. Healing in community is powerful, especially post-divorce.

Olivia Howell: I imagine a lot of people are afraid to touch those deep wounds. How do you help them overcome that fear?

Ashley Mahoney: Preparation is key. We do a lot of prep work before the session to create safety. We talk about consent, touch, expectations—everything. The goal is to create the safest environment possible. When you feel safe, you can go deeper.

Olivia Howell: I love that. And what happens after? Do people just go back to their regular lives?

Ashley Mahoney: We talk about that during preparation. Some people travel here and stay at local inns so they can decompress. You’re not supposed to drive after ketamine, so we always create a plan. You’re in this open state for a while—especially in the first 24 to 48 hours. We really emphasize the importance of integration and reflection during that time.

Olivia Howell: It must be so healing to do that in a group of women. I imagine it brings up mother wounds and all kinds of relational stuff.

Ashley Mahoney: Absolutely. We internalize so much as women—medical gaslighting, societal expectations, all of it. Psychedelic therapy helps shift those narratives and opens you up to new possibilities.

Olivia Howell: I love that. If someone is listening and wants to learn more or join a session, where can they find you?

Ashley Mahoney: You can find me at Arise Wellness—arisewellness.org—and on Instagram at @arise.wellness. I’m happy to answer questions, do consultations, and reduce the stigma around this kind of therapy.

Olivia Howell: Amazing. Thank you so much, Ashley. We appreciate the work you do and are so happy you’re part of the Fresh Starts community.

Ashley Mahoney: Thank you, Olivia. I’m so grateful to be here.