Collaborative Divorce represents a different path for resolving a divorce that is non-adversarial, child focused and cost effective. A team approach is utilized in which collaboratively trained attorneys, mental health professionals and a neutral financial specialist work together to bring closure to a marriage.

Dr. Lefkowits was a founding board member of the Howard County Collaborative Professional Group and was recently a member of the executive board. In addition, Dr. Lefkowits is on the board of the State wide collaborative group (MCPC) and is actively involved in both Montgomery County practice groups. Dr. Lefkowits has completed multiple trainings and is often a speaker on topics related to separation and divorce. Dr. Lefkowits has also written two articles for the Maryland Psychologist on Collaborative Practice.

The role of the divorce coach assists the both the clients and the team in respectfully resolving disputes in a dignified and substantive manner. This includes:

• Address emotional issues impacting the divorce which allow for the legal and financial issues to be managed more readily.
• Facilitate the efficient and economic use of a couples' time and resources.
• Help clients develop more effective communication skills.
• Focus on growth and skill development to set the stage for future co-parenting relationship.
• Help develop a parenting plan in order for parents to have a structure for their future co-parenting relationship

Divorce Mediation

As a mediator, Dr. Lefkowits acts as an objective third party to help resolve disputes pertaining to the end of the marriage. Dr. Lefkowits will often co-mediate with an attorney in order to address all the issues involved with a separation agreement and provide the structure for ending the marriage.

Mediation can provide the following advantages:

• Saves time and money. You avoid going to court and maintain your ability to make decisions for your family.
• Is fair to all concerned. The mediator is a third party who has no interest in the outcome.
• Is a confidential process. Mediation will not become part of the public record like going to court.
• Avoids long, drawn out litigation, saves money in attorney fees and reduces the time and steps involved in a traditional divorce.

Dr. John Lefkowits is a founding board member of the Howard County Collaborative Professional Group and is also on the board of the Maryland Collaborative Practice Council. Dr. Lefkowits has written two articles for the Maryland Psychologist on Collaborative Practice and has spoken many times on the issues of separation and divorce to both professional and community groups. Dr. Lefkowits has been involved in many collaborative divorce cases which have settled successfully.