Co-Parent Consulting and Coaching Guidelines:
A. Research shows us that children who grow up in conflicted homes are, many times, more likely to suffer with mental health and substance abuse issues, as well as have a much more difficult time establishing healthy relationships of their own. Conflict could be loud and scary, or it could be described more as constant tension and strain that is palpable within the household. Either scenario has the potential to cause lasting damage to children.
B. Learning to co-parent effectively after a separation requires parents to have a clear understanding of the effect their behaviors have on their children, and work to minimize the impact of their conflict on their children’s’ welfare. When parents utilize the co-parenting consultation service, they can expect to learn tangible techniques on communicating more effectively, make decisions that serve their children, and get on with the business of raising healthy children that are protected by the impact of ongoing, chronic conflict.
C. As a co-parenting coach, I make an effort to maintain impartiality in the coaching process, although I am not neutral when making recommendations and decisions that impact the best interest of the children. Impartiality is defined here as freedom from favoritism or bias in word or action.
D. This process is not designed to determine who has been at fault for past situations; the interest is to move forward in a manner that promotes emotional safety and an effective co-parent relationship. If there is a history of domestic violence or issues of safety, then those matters need to be addressed in a sensitive and productive manner. The intention, or goal, is to create an environment where both parents are empowered to participate, free from fear and intimidation.
E. Confidentiality rules governing this co-parent coaching process allow communication with the legal professionals involved in pending legal matters, including each parties’ lawyers, mediators, judicial officers and an appointed Guardian ad Litem. There will be no other communication released from this co-parent coach to any other parties regarding this case without agreement from both parents, and their expressed written consent. This provider is a Mandated Reporter, and will make legally required reports of abuse and neglect.
