High-conflict divorce is not simply a difficult breakup. It can be a relentless battle marked by manipulation, gaslighting, financial control, smear campaigns, and the painful realization that the person you once trusted may be willing to use anything—including your children—to maintain power.

In this powerful episode of Dishing on Divorce, Mandy and Deanna sit down with Eleanor Marks, a certified high-conflict divorce coach who understands this experience both professionally and personally.

Drawing from her own experience surviving a high-conflict divorce, Eleanor shares how gaslighting, financial manipulation, coercive control, smear campaigns, and post-separation abuse can leave people questioning their judgment and feeling completely alone. She explains how to recognize the patterns of a toxic relationship, communicate more strategically, protect your emotional well-being, and prepare for the realities of parallel parenting with someone who does not play fair.

The conversation also explores the value of divorce coaching, choosing an attorney who truly understands high-conflict dynamics, reducing emotionally charged communication, and creating settlement strategies that may help limit future conflict.

Eleanor’s message is one of strength and possibility: you cannot always change the other person, and you can learn how to protect your peace, regain your confidence, and build a calmer, freer life.

If you or someone you know is experiencing a mental health crisis or thoughts of suicide, call or text 988 to reach the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.

Connect with Eleanor: https://eleanormarks.net/