A Family-Centered Approach to Divorce in DuPage County
Families navigating divorce in DuPage County and surrounding communities often feel uncertain about what to do next and what kind of support they need at different stages. The Restorative Divorce® Pathway provides structured, step-by-step guidance designed to support decision-making, co-parent communication, and a more stable transition while staying out of court whenever possible.
Our tools below are what make the Restorative Divorce® process more practical, accessible, and easier to follow than divorce litigation. If you're starting to think about how to move forward with our tools, services, and costs, you can review typical Restorative Divorce and mediation pricing ranges here.
The Pathway consists of 3 steps with three foundational tools that meet families where they are and guide them forward with strength and intention. While each tool is available for individual purchase, parents who move forward with our Restorative Divorce® services receive all three as part of their tailored pathway.
You can explore each step below or jump to what fits your situation.
- - 1. Prepare: The Kitchen Table Divorce® Book
- - 2. Support: The Rudy & Ali Children's Book
- - 3. Grow: The 90 Day Workbook
- - How Tools Work Together
- - Restorative Divorce Pathway FAQ
- - Next Steps
1. The Kitchen Table Divorce® Book
For Preparation & Minimizing Legal Involvement
The Kitchen Table Divorce® Book was designed for individuals or couples exploring separation outside the courtroom, this book provides:
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A self-paced guide to organizing your thoughts and understanding your options
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Tips for preparing for mediation or early negotiation
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A framework to reduce attorney-driven conflict and keep control in your hands
Available instantly and privately as an eBook and as a paperback book in the link below.
Best For: Parents who want to begin the divorce conversation with clarity and minimize legal escalation.
Available internationally, where offered
Fast fulfillment through Amazon
Kindle version when available
2. Rudy & Ali Children's Book Series
For Supporting Children Emotionally During Divorce
Gentle stories told through the eyes of Rudy and Ali, two Clumber spaniels who help children:
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Understand big changes and learn emotional literacy
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Feel safe, heard, and supported throughout changes in their family
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Navigate complex emotions with comfort and hope
Each book includes a Parent Resource Guide with tips and insights from the author's 20+ years of experience.
Available through our office and Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Thriftbooks, and Walmart.
Best For: Parents of children ages 4–8 who want age-appropriate tools for emotional support.
Purchase Options
Buy a Signed Copy
U.S. shipping only
Buy on Amazon
Available internationally where available
Fast fulfillment through Amazon
Kindle version when available
Signed author copies are available for U.S. shipping only. For international orders, please try the Amazon link.
The themes in Rudy & Ali: A Listening Ear & A Cozy Corner also inspired 3 practical companion guides for parents.
Many parents reach a point where conversations break down, and it begins to feel like court is the only option. Often, the issue isn't a lack of care, it's a lack of structure around the conversation.
One parent shared:
“This is the most we have been able to talk to one another since our divorce.”
That shift came from slowing things down and approaching decisions differently.
In that same spirit, the Co-Parent Decision Toolkit™ offers simple digital guides to help parents:
• prepare for conversations
• stay calm during discussions
• organize decisions involving their child
It's not a replacement for professional support, but it can be a meaningful starting point.
Available through our office as separate resources or a bundle in the links below.
The Co-Parent Decision Toolkit™ is a simple way to begin when conversations feel stuck.
Purchase Options
Buy on Amazon
Available in U.S. and internationally, where offered
Fast fulfillment through Amazon
Kindle version when available
Signed author copies are available for U.S. shipping only. For international orders, please use the Amazon link.
3. The 90-Day Restorative Divorce® Workbook
For Healing, Growth & Future Planning
A structured workbook to guide clients through:
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Emotional reflection and regulation
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Co-parenting strategies and mindset shifts
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Daily affirmations, self-care, and future goal setting
Used during or after mediation or legal services, this workbook helps reinforce long-term stability and personal transformation.
Best For: Individuals seeking clarity, confidence, and empowerment through and beyond divorce.
Buy on Amazon
Available in U.S. and internationally, where offered
Fast fulfillment through Amazon
Kindle version when available
How These Tools Work Together
Whether you're just beginning to consider divorce or rebuilding after a finalized separation, the Restorative Divorce® Pathway offers practical support every step of the way. These resources are grounded in over two decades of family law and mediation experience, helping you make informed decisions, protect your children's well-being, and move forward with confidence.
Each tool is designed to stand alone or work together as part of a holistic, client-centered approach to separation and healing.
Work one-on-one with our paralegal or attorney as you move through The Kitchen Table Divorce® eBook. Create a calming evening ritual by reading a Rudy & Ali children's book with your child. And plan for a better future by working through the 90-Day Restorative Divorce® Workbook either independently or with guidance from our team over just 90 days.
Clients who engage our services receive all three Restorative Divorce® tools as part of their work with us.
Additional companion guides and worksheets are available for families who would like more structure while working through these resources. Many parents also benefit from using the Co-Parent Decision Toolkit™, a set of practical guides designed to help structure conversations about decisions involving children, including school, medical care, and activities.
A Quiet Note About Your Divorce Pathway
We believe restoration isn't just a legal outcome, it's a deeper invitation to rebuild what life may have shaken. While we don't always name it aloud, many families who come to us are seeking more than paperwork or parenting plans. They're hoping to bring peace to a painful season, to protect their children's hearts, and to choose a path of healing over conflict. Our work reflects that hope. Inspired by timeless principles of compassion, clarity, and redemption, the Restorative Divorce® Pathway exists to help you rebuild with dignity and renew what's been lost, one intentional step at a time.
Restorative Divorce® Pathway FAQ
What is the Restorative Divorce® Pathway?
The Restorative Divorce® Pathway is a structured, step-by-step approach designed to help parents move through divorce with clarity, reduced conflict, and minimal court involvement. It combines practical tools, legal guidance, and emotional support to help families make informed decisions at each stage.
How is this different from a traditional divorce process?
Traditional divorce often relies on court timelines, reactive decision-making, and attorney-driven conflict. The Restorative Divorce® Pathway focuses on preparation, structure, and informed decision-making early in the process, helping parents stay out of court whenever possible and maintain more control over outcomes.
Do I have to use all three tools to get started?
No. Each tool is designed to stand alone based on where you are in the process. Some parents begin with The Kitchen Table Divorce® book, while others start with guidance or mediation. If you move forward with services, all three tools are included as part of your pathway.
What if the other parent is not ready to participate?
You can begin the process individually. Many parents start by gaining clarity and structure on their own and then invite the other parent into mediation or structured discussions when the time is right.
Is this only for amicable divorces?
No. While the pathway works well for cooperative parents, it is also designed for situations where communication is difficult. The focus is on creating structure around conversations and decisions so progress can still be made.
How do I know which step to start with?
Most parents are unsure where to begin. A brief introductory call can help identify where you are in the process and recommend the next step, whether that is preparation, mediation, or structured legal support.
Can this process help me avoid going to court?
In many cases, yes. The pathway is designed to reduce unnecessary court involvement by helping parents make informed decisions earlier in the process. Some matters may still require court filings, but the goal is to minimize conflict and delay whenever possible.
What happens if I need more support along the way?
Additional guidance is available at each stage. Some parents work independently with the tools, while others choose mediation or legal support for more complex decisions. The pathway is flexible based on your needs.
Want help choosing the best place to start?
If you're feeling unsure where to begin, you're not alone. Most parents come to us at this exact point, looking for clarity before making any major decisions.
A brief 15-minute call can help you understand:
• Where you are in the process
• Which path makes the most sense for your situation
• What your next step could look like, whether you move forward with support or on your own
Schedule a brief call at a time that works for you.
What Happens After You Reach Out
• A brief call with our team to understand your situation
• A recommendation for your next step
• A clear path forward, whether you move ahead with us or not
Restorative Divorce® and The Kitchen Table Divorce® are registered trademarks of Erin N Birt and The Law Firm of Erin N Birt PC. All materials are protected and developed through over two decades of family law and mediation experience.
