Parenting Plans
Probably the single most difficult and responsible area in all problem solving and dispute resolution - even when families are in good shape this is a tough one to call!
Many families simply need some extra, expert, independent assistance to help them make best possible, shared parenting decisions for their children. Although the family unit may have become dysfunctional or uncomfortable, most parents still have a good idea of what they want for their children and the real challenge is to help them implement these plans in a collaborative way that helps them share the responsibility and the pleasure of parenting.
When parents are forced into adversarial stances, this possibility can be permanently lost - which becomes a lifelong loss for every member of the family.
Where there is serious and lasting emotional disturbance, expert counselling and therapeutic assistance is required.
Where this is not needed, "ordinary" problem solving and negotiation principles can be applied - usually through something like a mediation process. The result is usually a much faster, cheaper and more acceptable process, where agreements are reached in days, instead of years, and where both parties come out with dignity and with a measure of satisfaction as to the fairness of the outcome that enables them to achieve quicker emotional closure on their overall situation.
