EXCLUSIVE: A relationship therapist has shared what Richard and Mindy Hammond will need to consider in order for them to navigate through their difficult split amicably.

Richard Hammond shocked fans last week when he announced his separation from his long-term wife Mindy.

The pair were a couple for 28 years, 23 of which they were married, and together they share two daughters; Isabella and Willow.

Richard, 55, didn’t give a reason for their separation, however said as part of a statement: “We will always be in each other’s lives and are proud of the family we created.

“We won’t be commenting further and sincerely hope that our privacy and that of our children will be respected at this time. With Love, Richard and Mindy.”

Richard and Mindy Hammond have split after 28 years together (Image: GETTY)

A relationship therapist has now shared what she believes the pair should consider in order to navigate through their difficult new chapter amicably.

Sofie Roos, of Passionerad, said: “They have a lot of history as well as two children together, so for not turning this dirty, they need to maintain great contact, and stay connected as Richard says they’ve been so good at during the years.

“This will increase the chances of them finding a new kind of relationship that will turn strong and beautiful in another way than their previous one.”

Sofie says it’s also important to talk about “what’s been good and what’s been difficult”, so that no questions are left unanswered.

Richard and Mindy Hammond with their two daughters Isabella and Willow (Image: GETTY)

She additionally adds that for the pair to adapt to their new paths, they will need to give each other space, however suggests an occasional check-in with each other to see how things are.

Richard previously described Mindy as his “best friend and soulmate” who he clicked with instantly.

He has also claimed she helped save him from his near-death coma, following his high speed crash during filming for Top Gear in 2006.

After being told she may lose him due to his life-threatening head injuries, Mindy screamed by his bedside and he later woke up.

He previously shared on the DriveTribe YouTube channel: “Apparently she roared and screamed and swore at me ‘don’t you dare die’.

“And that’s when I turned back from this tree in my dream. And that’s when I woke.”

Sofie added: “When sharing and getting through experiences like that, you create a bond that’s sustainable even through a break up.

“And, even though it can take some time to find a way to relate to the fact that not being married anymore, I’m sure they will get to it one day.”