SITUATION  

A female employee reached out to discuss strategies for managing ongoing conflicts with an ex-partner, with whom she has been separated for two years. This individual now resides in a different state, while she has been in a new relationship for the past year.

The employee suspects her ex-partner is undermining her relationship with their child and threatening to withhold support payments. The employee suspects the child is using the conflict as an opportunity to act out at home. The employee expressed concerns about recent events, which have led to challenges affecting her mood and increasing her work-related stress.

ACTION  

The clinician provided active listening, validating the employee’s emotions, and encouraging a new level of self-compassion as she navigates the challenges of fulfilling both parental roles during these challenging times. The clinician provided additional information regarding the Child and Family Wellbeing plan, explaining how it could support her child’s needs and help mitigate the impact of the parental conflict.  

The employee expressed interest in further assistance from a Care Navigator to explore the best strategies for addressing her current circumstances. The clinician then processed the referral and explained the around-the-clock availability of EAP services, in case she needed additional support for her ongoing challenges.  

RESULTS 

Through engagement with the Care Navigator, the employee gained valuable insights and strategies for managing the complex dynamics between her ex-partner and her child. The sessions provided counselling on effective communication techniques, co-parenting strategies, and building a supportive environment for her child.  

As both a mother and former spouse, she learned how to set boundaries with her ex-partner and address threats in a manner that prioritized her child’s wellbeing. She also received guidance on fostering a positive relationship with her child, which helped mitigate the child’s rebellious behavior. Additionally, the coaching sessions provided tools for managing her own stress and maintaining emotional balance. As a result, the employee experienced an improvement in her mood and a reduction in work-related stress. She expressed gratitude for the comprehensive support provided by the Child and Family Wellbeing plan and the EAP, acknowledging the significant role they played in her and her child’s improved wellbeing.