Although it sounds a great deal like "marriage counseling", separation mediation is in fact a way for a couple to determine the best arrangements during the time that their divorce is pending or in which they can consider the best course of action. It is a simple fact that many couples decide to spend some time apart in order to assess their desire to remain in the marriage. While this might be a good choice, it does not delete the need to manage finances, care for children or aged parents and take care of jointly held assets like primary homes. A separation mediation specialist can sit down with a couple and calmly address all of the issues that they must deal with. This is a great way to prevent financial disasters from occurring and placing even more strain upon the relationship. It can also create a workable plan for child visitation and support payments too.