Parenting Coordination

Parenting coordination is a child-focused dispute resolution process for high-conflict separated or divorced parents, where a neutral third party (the Parenting Coordinator) helps implement and comply with court orders or parenting plans.

Theresa, as the Parenting Coordinator, facilitates communication, resolves conflicts, provides education on co-parenting and child development, and may make binding decisions if parents cannot agree, all with the goal of protecting the children's best interests and reducing exposure to parental conflict.

Key Aspects of Parenting Coordination

Neutral Third Party: The Parenting Coordinator (PC) — Theresa is an impartial professional, often a mental health professional, mediator, or family lawyer with special training in high-conflict cases.
Court-Ordered or Agreed-Upon: The process can be initiated through a court order or a private agreement between the parents.
Focus on Children's Needs: The primary goal is to protect the psychological and developmental well-being of the children by reducing the negative impact of parental conflict.
Conflict Resolution: Theresa is the professional who helps parents resolve day-to-day disputes related to the parenting plan, such as scheduling, child activities, and holiday arrangements.
Education and Case Management: Theresa is the one who educates parents on effective co-parenting strategies, communication, and children's needs, facilitating collaboration.
Potential for Decision-Making: In some jurisdictions, if parents cannot resolve an issue, Theresa is authorized to make binding decisions on their behalf.
Alternative to Litigation: By proactively managing and resolving conflicts, Theresa is the professional who helps reduce ongoing, costly litigation between parents.

Who is it for?
Parenting coordination is for parents who have an existing parenting plan or court order but are struggling to implement it, communicate effectively, or shield their children from ongoing high conflict. It is not therapy but a process to implement and manage parenting responsibilities, and Theresa is ready to guide families through each step.

Theresa Barker MMFT, RMFT

Nationally Certified Custody Evaluator (PACE)

Parenting Coordination

Key Aspects of Parenting Coordination