Parenting Coordination

Parenting Coordination provides a forum for coparents to work with Dr. Strauss to develop better understanding of the other parent’s perspective, facilitate good communication, and reduce conflict in making decisions for the child/children. In the process, Dr. Strauss will also provide information regarding child development and co-parenting communication, as well as give guidance related to issues with the child/children. Parenting Coordination does not change the terms of a custody agreement, but can include agreements about holidays, summers, make-up time, and any other issues that are relevant to a particular family.

Psychological and Parenting Evaluations

The purpose in conducting a parenting or psychological evaluation is to gather information that will enable Dr. Strauss to form an opinion concerning a party’s mental health and/or parenting abilities. The evaluation procedure involves a series of personal interviews with each party, as well as review of collateral documents and interviews with collateral sources. In addition to information gleaned by interviews, each parent will participate in a battery of psychological tests. Depending on the allegations made and the age(s) of the child(ren), an observation of interactions may also be conducted. Recommendations made in the final report do not include opinions about custody time or plans.

Custody Evaluations

A custody evaluation is a comprehensive assessment in which information is gathered that enables Dr. Strauss to form an opinion regarding what custody and access arrangement is most likely to be in the psychological best interests of the children. The evaluation procedure involves a series of personal interviews with each party, along with individual interviews of each child. Child(ren) are usually interviewed individually, and time is also taken to observe the child(ren) with each parent. In addition to observations and information gleaned by interviews, each parent will participate in a battery of psychological tests. Relevant testing will also be completed with children, age permitting, during their individual sessions. Additionally, relevant collateral parties will be contacted, and relevant documents will be reviewed. If circumstances permit, a home visit at both residences will also be conducted. Recommendations will be given regarding custody plans, access to the child(ren), and relevant mental health or parenting interventions.