Can You Truly Rebuild After Divorce? Divorce Therapist Oona Metz Says Yes—Here's How

Prepare to be inspired! Oona Metz, renowned divorce therapist and author of the forthcoming book "Unhitched: The Divorce Book for Women" (Gallery Books/Simon & Schuster, January 2026), will be a keynote speaker at our Women of Courage event on April 16th. "Unhitched" charts the emotional journey of divorce, packed with practical information and hope.

Before she takes the stage, we're giving you an exclusive glimpse into her transformative wisdom in this insightful Q&A, where she addresses key questions about rebuilding after divorce and finding your strength.

Experience a powerful and uplifting three-hour event, Women of Courage, on April 16th. Whether you're navigating divorce yourself or supporting someone who is, you're invited to join us. No membership necessary! Grab your ticket(s) here: I'd like to attend Women of Courage 2025

Q&A with Oona Metz

JDW: What role does community and support play in healing during and after divorce, and how can women actively build these networks?

Oona Metz: Community support is vital so I always encourage people to make sure they are dialed into as many communities as they can without feeling overwhelmed. That might mean a support group at JDW, a book club, a hiking group or taking part on a committee—all good options to help develop support and community.

JDW: As a therapist specializing in life transitions, what common emotional hurdles do women experience during and after divorce?

Oona Metz: Women who are going through divorce, whether they initiated it or not, need to grieve—the loss of the marriage, but also the loss of financial stability (in many cases), the family home (in some cases), and the loss of identity as wife and part of an intact family. Friends and family who have not been through divorce may be well meaning, but may not fully comprehend how many losses are involved with divorce so creating a community of other divorced women is crucial for the healing process.

JDW: How can women develop a stronger sense of self after experiencing loss or major life changes?

Oona Metz: It takes time to build a stronger sense of self, especially if you have been in an unhealthy relationship or marriage. So, the first ingredients are patience and self compassion. Surrounding yourself with people who love and value you is also a great way to build a stronger sense of self. Engaging in activities that showcase your strength and empathy for others (work, volunteering, parenting, hobbies) are also good ways to build yourself back up after a loss.

JDW: Can you share a powerful insight or strategy that has helped your clients navigate adversity with strength?

Oona Metz: One of the things I emphasize in the support groups I lead is: "Just because your spouse says it, doesn’t make it true.” It can be hard to remember that when you receive an angry text saying you have to sell the house/give up custody/change your parenting agreement etc etc etc, but I ask my group members to slow down, take a deep breath and remember that their spouse is not the King (or Queen) and doesn’t get to unilaterally decide how the divorce will go.

JDW: What message do you hope attendees will take away from your keynote at Women of Courage 2025?

Oona Metz: I hope they will have compassion for themselves as they navigate the heartbreaking, stressful, confusing, and frustrating aspects of divorce while simultaneously holding onto the opportunity that divorce provides for healing, growth and a new identity.

Seeking strength and inspiration during separation or divorce? Or want to support a friend? Join us for the empowering Women of Courage event on April 16th. All women are welcome to attend! Grab your ticket(s) here: I'd like to attend Women of Courage 2025

 To learn more about Oona, her work, resources and services, please visit oonametz.com