I come to my work as a couples coach from a place of authenticity: I’ve been there.

Now married for well over a decade, I have blended a family of six, and thank G-d, all are married. I am reaping the rewards of seeing our children raise their children with devotion and love, enjoying beautiful blended family times together.

With professional training and certification providing a strong grounding, I draw upon my experiences as a lifelong New York resident and a member of the Orthodox Jewish community. I understand how challenging it can be when your “real” life doesn’t turn out the way you thought it would—whether that means a divorce or a struggling marriage.

My first marriage resulted in three beautiful children but ended after ten years. My second marriage was an ill-advised rebound relationship that lasted less than a year. During my ten years as a single parent, I faced the complexities of divorce, single and co-parenting, community expectations, work, dating (don’t get me started!), and my own self-esteem issues.

While still single, I embarked on a cheshbon hanefesh (soul-searching) journey, feeling compelled to help other divorcees in the frum Jewish community navigate similar struggles and emerge stronger, as I have.

I have been blessed to see my children grow into fine adults who attended good schools and yeshivas. All three of my children are married, and I am a proud grandmother to many (with hopes for more!). I know firsthand that you can still lead a fulfilling life after divorce.

To equip myself to help others, I became certified in Divorce Coaching, learning proven methods to support individuals grappling with every stage—from the “should I?” to starting anew. Eventually, I found my wonderful husband and entered my third marriage, determined not just to stay married, but to stay happily married.

Yet, old habits die hard. My sensitive nature and independent spirit sometimes clashed with my husband’s own traits. Recognizing this, I was driven to discover the secret to a great marriage—beyond mere co-existence or constant quarreling.

Through studying leading relationship experts and exploring Imago Relationship Therapy, I earned certifications in The Gottman Method and Michelle Weiner’s Divorce Busting. With this knowledge, I have worked diligently to cultivate a relationship of love and harmony with my husband. My greatest accomplishment is going to sleep at night very happily married, b”h. I now understand the essence of good communication and what a mutually satisfying and fulfilling relationship based on understanding, respect, and love truly feels like. It’s my passion to share that joy with others.

In my learning, I found wisdom across various schools of thought, recognizing a common theme: marriage is work. All marriages require active, conscious participation. You must invest in the behaviors, actions, and words that bring you closer as a couple. With the right skills, you can not only survive but thrive!

The good news is that anyone can learn these skills. Marriage can come with an instruction manual, and I’m here to share it with you, helping you build your own happy and connected marriage.

In coaching couples and divorcees, I discovered my true calling. I am passionate about helping others by sharing what I’ve learned through my life experiences and relationship education. With my persistent optimism and “get it done” attitude, I am uniquely qualified to guide you through your divorce or marriage challenges.

Sound good?  Let’s start the conversation, and see if I can be the ally you need to get through this difficult time. Contact me to set up your free consultation today.

Sara Freed, Jewish Marriage Advice