Q: My husband works away from the home for weeks at a time and has left us how can I get him counseling so we dont divorce?

A: There really isn't any legal process you can use to prevent a divorce from happening or to force a spouse into counseling. If he does file a divorce complaint and custody is at issue, the court will sometimes order a party (more often both parties) to be evaluated, but that's only if there's evidence that your child's welfare is jeopardized by possible psychological disorders which have caused harmful behavior.

The response you describe is appropriate, and it's probably the only way to address this situation. Stay positive and focused on building and maintaining healthy relationships with family and friends who may have influence or who may provide support if you have to go through some difficult times, whether or not a divorce happens. Remember that a divorce doesn't change the fact that you're both parents, and you'll have to cooperate on that for years to come. You may want to find an individual therapist for yourself, because anyone can benefit from professional help in this situation. Remember, right now this is a relationship problem, not a legal problem.

You should also look at the Alaska Court System's Family Law Self Help Center online. They also have classes that cover the basics. Being prepared for the worst case scenario will reduce some of the normal fear people feel in your situation. That will make it easier to focus on yourself, your relationship, your friends and family, and the other real-life things in the present that really matter.