Co-parenting counseling is a support for families who are going through a separation or divorce. The goals are centered around helping couples during transition of separating,  improving communication and conflict resolution skills and developing a co-parenting plan for the future that is in the best interest of the child or children.  There are times a family court judge may mandate families to participate in Co-parenting or they can proactively choose to go on their own.

You can expect sessions to be very structured.  There will be an initial intake to get background information.  Many times the therapist may meet individually one time with each party to obtain a more thorough detailed history.  This is done to help the therapist better understand the family dynamics, parenting styles and what issues are most needed to work on.

Co-parenting is not a time to work out individual issues as one would do in individual therapy.  The co-parenting therapist will need the main focus to be on the best interest of the child or children, will require both parties to cooperate fully, be respectful and compliant at all times.

During sessions the primary tools that will be taught and practiced will be communicating, conflict resolution, parenting skills, behavioral and emotional management to support their child transitioning through a divorce and a co-parenting plan.

Below are some helpful questions to ask before beginning co-parenting counseling:

• How can I come prepared for my first session?
• What is the recommended frequency of sessions?
• How long will co-parenting counseling last for?
• What are the different payment options?
• What are the goals for counseling?
• Will there be homework assignments between sessions?
• Should I also be seeing an individual counselor?
• How does confidentiality work around my sessions and will my information be shared with a judge.