Is It OK to Be Married (But Separated) and Dating?

Rachel Dack

Written by: Rachel Dack

Rachel Dack

Rachel Dack is a licensed clinical professional counselor (LCPC) and relationship coach specializing in individual and couples psychotherapy. Rachel's areas of expertise include relationships, dating, mindfulness, anxiety, depression and self-esteem. To connect with Rachel or to learn more about her psychotherapy and relationship coaching services, please follow her on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram. Buy her book "Sexy Secrets to a Juicy Love Life" on Amazon.

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Edited by: Lillian Castro

Lillian Castro

Lillian Guevara-Castro brings more than 30 years of journalism experience to ensure DatingAdvice articles have been edited for overall clarity, accuracy, and reader engagement. She has worked at The Atlanta Journal and Constitution, The Gwinnett Daily News, and The Gainesville Sun covering lifestyle topics.

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Reader Question:

Is OK to be married but separated and dating at the same time?

-David (New Jersey)

Rachel Dack’s Answer:

Hey David,

This is a great question and only you can assess your own readiness about dating while separated.

After the end of a marriage or relationship, it is so crucial to spend adequate time to grieve the loss of the relationship, process feelings, get to know yourself and create a new life without your significant other.

It is so important not to rush this process for your own health and wellness, as well as the success of your future relationships. Getting closure is a really important part of the separation process.

It is recommended that you live separately from your ex-spouse for some time, ensure you are getting good emotional support and really take some time for yourself before dating anyone else.

Once this time is spent, you will find yourself more ready to get back out there. At this point, it can be common to start dating while you are separated or in the process of divorcing.

Take care,

Rachel


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