Not everyone should do pure DIY. Some people are dealing with extreme conflict, safety concerns, or complicated finances that make coaching or mediation a better fit. This short quiz won’t label you—it’s simply here to point you toward a safer, more realistic starting path.

Answer each question as honestly as you can based on the last few months—not just the best day or the worst day. When you’re done, you’ll see a suggested starting point: Mostly DIY, DIY + Coaching, or Mediation-Focused.

Your Situation at a Glance

1. How high is the conflict right now?

Think about texts, emails, in-person blowups, and how quickly things escalate.

Low – We disagree, but we can usually talk without things exploding. Medium – Arguments happen, and some topics are landmines, but we can sometimes work things out. High – Almost every interaction turns into a fight, blame, or stonewalling. Extreme – There are threats, intimidation, or deliberate attempts to “destroy” the other person.

2. How well can you communicate directly with the other person?

This includes in person, by phone, or in writing.

We can usually talk through issues, even if it’s uncomfortable. We can sometimes talk, but it often derails or goes in circles. Direct communication rarely goes well. I brace myself every time. We can’t safely or productively communicate at all.

3. How complex are your finances, parenting, and history?

Consider kids, business interests, real estate, long marriages, or past court involvement.

Simple – Few assets, few debts, no kids or very straightforward parenting. Moderate – Some assets, some debts, kids, but nothing extremely unusual. Complex – Multiple assets, retirement accounts, or complicated parenting issues. Very complex – Business ownership, long-term abuse allegations, prior cases, or serious mental health issues.

4. How safe and emotionally stable do you feel right now?

This is about both physical safety and emotional overwhelm.

I feel stressed, but basically safe and functional. I’m okay most days but have some panic, shutdown, or “I can’t do this” moments. I feel like I’m at or beyond my limit much of the time. I feel unsafe, targeted, or like I’m being deliberately pushed to the edge.

Which Resolution Path Fits Your Situation?

Your Situation at a Glance

1. How high is the conflict right now?

2. How well can you communicate directly with the other person?

3. How complex are your finances, parenting, and history?

4. How safe and emotionally stable do you feel right now?