In nearly every situation where parents live apart, children benefit when they speed significant time with both parents. Unfortunately, there are instances where there are concerns about a young person’s safety during visits with a father or mother who has a history of violence, neglect or substance abuse. Frequently, the parenting plan in these cases will include supervised visitation, where a trusted individual is present to ensure the child’s well-being. While this might be a good way to avert harmful incidents, a different form of visitation is designed to help parents become better caregivers.
Through therapeutic supervised visitation, a licensed social worker takes an active role when a parent spends time with their son or daughter. It has been described as a method of incorporating family therapy and parent coaching into court-mandated visits. This differs from standard supervised visitation where a third party merely observes the parent-child interactions unless a problem arises.
The goals are not only safety and compliance, but also healing and skill-building. When therapeutic supervised visitation is part of a parenting plan, it should be clear that the third party is there to provide professional support to the mother or father, rather than acting as a watchdog. Each course of therapeutic supervised visitation can be shaped based on the specific issues parents have, as well as the nature of their relationship with their child.
For families and counsel, successful implementation depends on the details. Court orders should set forth clear terms regarding provider qualifications, frequency and duration of visits, therapeutic goals, information-sharing protocols and steps for transitioning to less restrictive contact if milestones are met. Selecting an experienced social worker, confirming safety protocols, and coordinating with existing therapists can improve outcomes and reduce delays.
No matter the circumstances, child custody arrangements should be crafted with care. Creating a safe environment is essential, even if that leads to some friction during the divorce process. If therapeutic supervision is appropriate, an experienced family lawyer can guide you through provider selection, goal setting and compliance so progress is measurable and the child’s well-being remains paramount.
Bryan L. Salamone & Associates, P.C. handles child custody and visitation matters for Long Island clients during the legal divorce process and after a parenting plan has been established. For a consultation regarding the possibility of therapeutic visitation or some other matter, please call 631-388-6009 or contact us online.