Expert Feature Kimberly Lorah, Mediation Preparation Specialist, Divorce Coach, Therapist
Kimberly, can you tell us a little about yourself, what you do and what led you to this line of work?
When you’re facing divorce, knowing what to do next can feel almost impossible. I know because I’ve been there. After more than 25 years in the mental-health field and the painful ending of my own 23-year marriage, I became the professional I wish I’d had when I was struggling through my divorce.
What inspired you to work with people going through divorce or big life transitions?
I never imagined I would be starting over in the middle of my life. When my 23-year marriage ended, I experienced betrayal in ways I never imagined and suddenly my life was flipped upside down. Even as a professional with decades in the mental-health field, I experienced first-hand how difficult it is to make life-changing decisions when emotions are running high. I found myself drowning in fear and overwhelm while navigating an unfamiliar process. That experience inspired me to provide others with the preparation, perspective, and guidance I wish I’d had. Now I help others navigate their divorces differently.
What is your specialty within the divorce space, and how do you typically support your clients?
Walking into mediation unprepared can cost you more than money. It can cost you clarity, confidence, and peace of mind when you need them most. I specialize in divorce mediation preparation, helping clients clarify priorities, organize concerns, anticipate difficult conversations, manage emotions, explore options, and communicate effectively. My work helps clients arrive at mediation prepared to participate thoughtfully and advocate for themselves, their families, and the life they are building next.
What makes your approach to working with clients unique?
I bring together the perspective of a therapist, the practical focus of a coach, and the lived experience of a divorced, single mom. This is the inspiration behind the creation of my Integrative Life Transition Framework. I look beyond the immediate conflict to help clients prepare for what’s ahead emotionally, practically, and strategically and help them navigate divorce without losing sight of themselves.
What’s one thing that people are often surprised to learn about you?
I’m a beach-loving mom of two young adults who is regularly bossed around by my two cats, Linus and Charlie Brown, and my dog, Winnie. I love to travel and have a running goal of seeing as much of the world as possible which probably explains why I’m always thinking about where I’m going next! Hello Iceland!
Do you have a personal story or experience that helps you connect with clients on a deeper level?
I know what it feels like to look at your life and barely recognize it. My marriage ended after over two decades together with betrayal, grief, fear, and questions about a future I never expected to face alone. I remember second-guessing myself and wondering what came next. That lived experience, combined with my professional expertise, helps me understand both the emotional weight of divorce and the importance of having guidance in the present moment while preparing for what comes next. P.S. What came next in my life is better than I could have imagined!
What’s your favorite way to reset after a long day?
The beach, without question. There’s something about the ocean, a long walk, and some fresh air that helps me hit reset. And honestly, my favorite kind of reset is when both kids are home. After all the years of raising them, having everyone back under one roof feels pretty special.
If you could describe your work in three words, what would they be?
Prepared. Grounded. Empowered. Divorce can make you question yourself and second-guess every decision. My work is about helping clients get prepared, stay grounded when emotions run high, and feel empowered to make thoughtful decisions about their future.
What does “fresh start” mean to you personally?
A fresh start isn’t about pretending the past didn’t happen. It’s about deciding that what happened doesn’t get to define what happens next. Divorce may change the life you imagined, but it can also create an opportunity to build a life that feels more intentional, genuine, and truly your own. My divorce brought a future I never planned. Over time, starting over became less about rebuilding the life I had and more about discovering who I was and what I wanted next. To me, a fresh start means carrying the lessons forward without allowing the pain of the past to define your future and creating a life that feels authentically your own. Now I am so grateful for those changes and opportunities and an exciting path forward.
Thank you Kimberly for sharing your wisdom and experience with the Fresh Starts community! You can learn more about their work by checking out Kimberly’s profile below!
Please note that the blogpost above does not represent the thoughts or opinions of Fresh Start Registry and solely represents the original author’s perspective.