I’m Divorced and a Divorce Professional—Here’s What I Learned with Kelsey Boucher, Divorce Coach
At Fresh Starts, we’re proud to spotlight the incredible professionals who guide people through one of life’s most challenging transitions: divorce. Today, we’re featuring Kelsey Boucher, a Divorce Coach, whose work helps clients find clarity, strength, and a true fresh start.
Kelsey, what was your divorce journey like—what season of life you were in, the biggest challenge, and what supported you most?
Can you share a little about your own divorce storAfter I got married, I was excited to have a partner, a home, and the chance to start a family. But at 34, through therapy and deep self-reflection, I discovered more about myself (turns out I'm queer!)—a truth that both liberated and terrified me. That awareness brought clarity about the life I wanted, but also grief for the one I was leaving behind.
With the help of my village—my therapist, my parents, and my friends—I made it through the process of selling our home and starting over. Looking back, I often wish I’d had a coach to help guide me through it. I also had to figure out how to be a single working mom while also maintaining my friends and social life. I’m happy to say that this is all possible and that the choice to divorce has led me to a new chapter in my life that feels completely my own. It’s also important to note that this also freed my ex-husband to re-marry and live a life that brings him joy. We are now friends and better co-parents as a result.
What inspired you to work with people going through divorce or big life transitions?
I learned that I was far stronger than I ever imagined—and that no one else could advocate for my peace and happiness but me. Ultimately, you are the one who carries yourself through the hardest days. And also, your support systems are vital. There are therapists, coaches, lawyers and other supportive people who have seen it all and can answer your questions.
What is your specialty within the divorce space, and how do you typically support your clients?
My experience showed me that all divorces are different. I knew what I wanted (and what I absolutely didn't want) and I did not appreciate when people gave me "well-meaning" advice that didn't fit my life. As a coach, I make space for each client’s unique path—whether they’re grieving, rebuilding, or rediscovering joy—and I help them find the tools and confidence to move forward on their own terms.
What makes your approach to working with clients unique?
Divorce comes with endless logistics and decisions and it's easy to put yourself last. Especially as a parent. But your wellbeing is not optional. Developing, creating or re-discovering a self-care practice that grounds you—whatever that looks like for you—will help you to stay focused and make decisions aligned with your values.
What’s one thing that people are often surprised to learn about you?
I encourage clients to remember their values and dreams and to think about the opportunity that divorce can provide. You are building a new future with newly negotiated relationships, boundaries and expectations. It's a chance to look at what is no longer working and imagine what you truly want in life.
Do you have a personal story or experience that helps you connect with clients on a deeper level?
Before my own experience, I believed divorce had to be destructive and that children would inevitably be harmed. I now know that peace and cooperation are possible—and that children thrive when their parents do. You also don't have to have a long, drawn out legal battle that leaves both parties broke and exhausted. Divorce is always hard, but it is possible to have an amicable split and become great co-parents.
What’s your favorite way to reset after a long day?
I’m a Social Worker who chose to become a coach, not a therapist. I have benefited from therapy for many years, but I wanted to choose a different role while still upholding Social Work values. My skills are in co-creating a vision for the future with activities and tangible action steps for my clients. I love helping folks to set goals and meet them so they can move forward and take the next steps in the process and build a future they can feel proud of.
If you could describe your work in three words, what would they be?
My post-divorce life looks like peace. I love my job, own my home, make time for friends, spend quality time with my daughter, and maintain a positive relationship with her dad and stepmom. We’ve built a modern, joyful family, and I finally feel like I’m living a life that reflects who I truly am.
What does “fresh start” mean to you personally?
Getting a “fresh start” means you have the chance to create a new path for yourself. Divorce is an opportunity to fully live your values and build a life that feels peaceful and free. It’s not an ending—it’s a creative act of rebuilding, where you get to decide what joy and fulfillment look like for you.
Thank you Kelsey for sharing your wisdom and experience with the Fresh Starts community! You can learn more about their work by checking out Kelsey’s profile below!
