Parenting Co-Ordination

Supporting Parents. Prioritizing Children. Reducing Conflict.

When the relationship between co-parents becomes volatile, the impact on their children can be severe and far-reaching. Parenting Co-Ordination is a structured, child-focused dispute resolution process designed to help parents reduce conflict, improve communication, and implement parenting plans effectively.

As a NABFAM Accredited Parenting Co-Ordinator, I provide neutral, professional support to assist parents in resolving disputes, clarifying parental responsibilities, and ensuring that the best interests of the child remain the priority.

What is Parenting Co-Ordination?

Parenting Co-Ordination is a cost-effective and time-efficient method of dispute resolution that helps parents work through conflicts without having to rely on an overburdened court system. A Parenting Co-Ordinator acts as a neutral third party, guiding co-parents through:

Implementing and interpreting parenting plans
Resolving disputes over day-to-day parenting matters
Clarifying parental rights and responsibilities
Facilitating cooperative parenting to minimize stress on children
Issuing directives when parents cannot reach an agreement (where legally applicable)

Why Choose Parenting Co-Ordination?

Child-Focused Approach – Every decision prioritizes the child’s emotional, psychological, and developmental well-being.
Reduces Parental Conflict – Helps parents navigate co-parenting with less stress and hostility.
Prevents Unnecessary Litigation – Resolves disputes without returning to court.
Encourages Co-Parenting Solutions – Equips parents with better communication and conflict resolution skills.
Legally Supported Process – Parenting Co-Ordinators can issue binding directives in line with parenting plans, settlement agreements, or court orders.

How Does the Process Work?

Initial Consultation – Understanding your unique co-parenting challenges.
Review of Parenting Plan – Assessing current agreements and areas of conflict.
Conflict Resolution & Mediation – Facilitating discussions and agreements.
Decision-Making Support – Providing expert guidance or issuing directives where necessary.
Ongoing Support (if required) – Helping parents maintain a peaceful and effective co-parenting dynamic.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is Parenting Co-Ordination?

Parenting Co-Ordination is a structured dispute resolution process that helps parents address conflicts regarding their parenting plan and co-parenting relationship. It is designed to prioritize the best interests of the child and reduce parental conflict.

How is a Parenting Co-Ordinator different from a Mediator?

While mediation helps parents negotiate agreements, a Parenting Co-Ordinator ensures compliance with existing parenting plans and can make binding recommendations when disputes arise. Mediation is voluntary, while Parenting Co-Ordination is often a court-appointed or agreed-upon service for high-conflict cases.

Who needs a Parenting Co-Ordinator?

Parenting Co-Ordination is beneficial for parents who:

Experience ongoing conflict over parenting decisions.
Struggle to communicate effectively regarding their child.
Have difficulty implementing a parenting plan.
Want to avoid repeated court battles over child-related disputes.

What kind of decisions can a Parenting Co-Ordinator make?

A Parenting Co-Ordinator can assist with and make recommendations on:

Scheduling conflicts related to parenting time.
Disagreements on school activities, holidays, and extracurriculars.
Medical or healthcare decisions (where within scope).
Communication guidelines between parents.
Minor modifications to parenting plans (where allowed).

However, a Parenting Co-Ordinator cannot make major legal decisions such as changing primary residence, determining custody (care and contact), or making financial/spousal maintenance rulings.

How is Parenting Co-Ordination different from therapy or legal representation?

Parenting Co-Ordination is not therapy and does not replace legal counsel. It is a child-focused dispute resolution process that helps enforce and interpret parenting agreements while minimizing conflict. If deeper emotional or legal support is needed, referrals to therapists or attorneys may be recommended.

Is Parenting Co-Ordination legally binding?

Yes, in many cases, Parenting Co-Ordinators have the authority to make binding recommendations within the scope of the parenting plan, reducing the need for litigation. Some parenting plans and court orders explicitly include Parenting Co-Ordination as a dispute resolution mechanism.

Do both parents have to agree to use a Parenting Co-Ordinator?

Yes, both parents must agree to engage in Parenting Co-Ordination unless a court has ordered the appointment of a Parenting Co-Ordinator due to ongoing conflict.

How long does the Parenting Co-Ordination process take?

The process varies depending on the complexity of the disputes and the level of cooperation between parents. Some cases may require only a few sessions, while others need ongoing support over several months.

How do we get started with Parenting Co-Ordination?

To begin, schedule an initial consultation where we can review your parenting plan, identify areas of conflict, and establish guidelines for working together. Contact me today to take the next step toward a healthier co-parenting dynamic.