Rebuilding Your Life After Divorce Workshop in St. Charles, October 8th
Divorce can feel like a tidal wave of change, and when you're trying to hold everything together, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. That’s why we’ve brought together a powerhouse panel who aren’t just professionals in their fields; they’re compassionate guides who understand what you’re going through.
From financial planning and legal support to housing guidance and mental health support, these industry experts are here to offer clarity, answer your questions, and help you move forward with confidence. Whether you’re newly divorced or still navigating the process, their insights will help you reclaim your footing and begin to rebuild your life.
Learn more about our speakers below and join us on Thursday, October 8th from 6:30 PM - 8:30 PM at Rising Lights Project, 2015 Dean Street, Suite 5,
in St. Charles, Illinois.
This event is free, but please register HERE so we can plan for seats and treats.
Alexis Benson
Financial Advisor Specializing in Transitions
Edward Jones - Geneva, IL
Alexis Benson is passionate about helping women and divorcees confidently navigate financial transitions. With a clear, compassionate approach, she partners with individuals to demystify financial planning and build a secure foundation for their next chapter. Her mission is to create a judgment-free space where no question is too small and every decision is made with clarity and confidence.
Workshop Takeaways:
How to tackle essential financial housekeeping after divorce
Steps toward financial empowerment and reclaiming independence
Retirement planning strategies after major life changes (SAHM, career shifts, or divorce)
Anique Drouin
Family Law Attorney & Mediator
Drouin Family Law - Naperville and St. Charles, IL
With nearly 20 years of experience, Anique Drouin focuses on family law with a strong emphasis on out-of-court resolutions. Her work is grounded in reducing conflict and guiding families through divorce with dignity and practical problem-solving.
Anique helps clients understand their options and avoid unnecessary drama by navigating post-divorce life with clear communication and thoughtful planning.
Workshop Takeaways:
How to avoid common post-divorce pitfalls (missed obligations, poor communication, etc.)
Best ways to communicate while co-parenting and tracking shared children's expenses
Process options for addressing post-divorce issues with your ex-spouse - it does not have to involve court all the time.
Katy Winans & Linda Callaghan
Mortgage Lending Team
Guild Mortgage - Aurora, IL
Katy and Linda of the Callaghan-Winans Team at Guild Mortgage bring a unique, deeply personal perspective to home financing after divorce. As a divorced mom and a child of divorce, they understand the emotional and logistical weight of housing decisions during transition.
Their mission is to provide guidance, education, and tailored lending solutions to help you make empowered housing decisions.
Workshop Takeaways:
The importance of homeownership and how it contributes to long-term stability
Key financial considerations: housing costs, budgeting, and using alimony or child support as income
Steps to prepare for buying a home (or refinancing) post-divorce, including credit scores, down payment assistance programs available, and pre-approval tips
Priscilla Dean, LCPC, TTP & Luke Dean, ALMFT
Mental Health Team
Evergreen Counseling, Wheaton, IL
Queer Sober Therapy, Oak Park, IL
Priscilla Dean and Luke Dean are Chicago-area therapists who help individuals, couples, and families through some of life's hardest transitions. Their work spans trauma, grief, relationships, and co-parenting.
Together, they bring a warm, practical, trauma-informed approach to divorce. They help parents understand what's normal in grief, recognize what can become traumatic, and communicate in ways that protect everyone involved, especially children. Their work covers the whole arc of a relationship, from couples therapy before a separation to co-parenting support long after the paperwork is signed.
Workshop Takeaways:
Grief isn't the same as trauma. Losing a family unit is painful, but it isn't automatically traumatic. What shapes the outcome is how we respond to the loss. You'll learn what normal grief looks like during a major family transition, so you can stop fearing the worst.
How to shield your kids from unnecessary harm. You'll learn which parties are most vulnerable during divorce and why. You'll also learn concrete ways to keep children out of the crossfire.
Fair fighting that actually works. You'll get practical techniques for setting boundaries, staying calm, and resolving disagreements with your former partner without escalating conflict.
Support at every stage. You'll hear how therapy, from couples work to co-parenting counseling, can help before, during, and after divorce, and when it makes sense to reach out.
Mutual Ground
Serving residents across Kendall County, Kane County, DuPage County, and Will County.
Mutual Ground creates a safe environment where people affected by domestic violence, sexual violence, and substance use can reclaim their power. Through education, awareness, and life-changing services, they support the healing of our community with a commitment to equity for all.
Mutual Ground will be available so attendees can learn about their services and connect confidentially with support.
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