In recent years, there’s been a noticeable shift in who initiates divorce and the numbers speak volumes. According to multiple studies, nearly 70% of divorces are now initiated by women. This trend is even higher among educated women and those in long-term marriages. But what’s driving this change? And more importantly, how can mediation offer the support, stability, and empowerment women need during this critical transition?
As a medically trained divorce attorney and mediator for over 35 years, I have seen this trend develop especially in the last ten years. Women have taken the lead in initiating divorce and they have good reasons and lots of support.
So, here is what I have learned as to why more women are choosing to divorce:
1. Emotional Disconnection
Many women report feeling emotionally unsupported or invisible in their marriages. Over time, this emotional neglect can turn into deep dissatisfaction even if the marriage looks “fine” from the outside.
2. Unequal Burden at Home
Even in two-income households, women often carry the emotional and logistical weight of running the home, childcare, schoolwork, meals, aging parents. This chronic imbalance leads to burnout and resentment.
3. Economic Independence
Women today are more financially independent than ever before. With careers, education, and savings of their own, many feel less trapped and more empowered to leave unhappy or unfulfilling marriages.
4. Personal Growth and Self-Discovery
Many women evolve in their 30s, 40s, and 50s reclaiming their identity, discovering new passions, or realizing they've outgrown their partner. Divorce becomes an act of self-liberation, not failure.
5. Toxic or Narcissistic Relationships
An increasing number of women are recognizing the signs of narcissistic abuse, gaslighting, and emotional manipulation and they are choosing to walk away rather than stay stuck in a cycle of dysfunction.
As a medically trained divorce attorney/mediator who has developed a highly successful and unique mediation model with an infused psychological approach to divorce, I am working with more and more women embracing mediation and their spouses who are receptive to this powerful process.
Here is Why Mediation Works So Well for Women:
When a woman initiates divorce, she often seeks more than just legal separation, she wantsemotional closure, practical solutions, and protection for her children and future. That’s where mediation, especially my approach comes in.
1. Mediation Puts You in Control
Litigation can be cold, combative, slow and very expensive. Mediation allows women to voice what matters most to them, whether that’s financial security, parenting arrangements, or keeping the process peaceful.
2. It’s Less Expensive and Less Stressful
Many women fear the financial toll of a drawn-out court battle. Mediation is more affordable, faster, and keeps conflict to a minimum so you can move forward without being drained emotionally or financially.
3. Our Psychologically Based Mediation Method
My divorce mediation approach blends legal expertise with deep psychological insight. I understand the emotional complexities women face especially when divorcing a narcissist, facing gaslighting, or trying to co-parent with a spouse with mental illness. I offer a safe space, smart strategy, and compassionate guidance.
4. It Protects Children From Trauma
Women often choose mediation to shield their children from the emotional warfare of court. Mediation creates parenting plans that prioritize stability, communication, and long-term cooperation, not punishment or revenge.
Women are filing for divorce not because they are “giving up” but because they are “waking up” to their needs, their worth, and their desire for a more fulfilling life. Mediation can be the empowering, intelligent path forward.
If you’re a woman considering divorce, or if you’ve already made the decision, you don’t have to go through your divorce alone.
As a medically trained divorce attorney and mediator for over 35 years, I can help you along with my special team of experts that ranges from divorce coaches to psychiatrists, psychologists, and financial strategists and lots more. We will all work hard to get you the best results.
With the right divorce team, you can preserve your dignity, protect your children, hold on to your finances and find your happiness once again!
Call now to schedule your free consultation 212.734.1551. Let’s talk about your concerns, your goals and let us help you start the next chapter of your life with clarity and confidence. Also inquire about free consultations available with some of our experts as part of our unique comprehensive divorce process.
We are all here to help you!
Warm wishes,
Lois