High Conflict Separation / Divorce

Dear Parent/Caregiver

As therapists, our ultimate goal is to provide the best possible care for your child. However, there are certain circumstances in which therapy can cause more harm than good. One of those is related to unresolved custody.

Uncertainty about custody arrangements can cause a great deal of stress and anxiety for children. Providing therapy at this time can actually add to the confusion and instability that children can experience when custody is in question. It is always best that children and parents have a clear sense of the family situation for therapy to have the best outcomes.

Additionally, therapy requires a certain level of trust between the therapist and the child (or any client). The child needs to feel comfortable and safe to be able to share their thoughts and feelings with the therapist. If the child is unsure about custody arrangements or unsure what to say in case they make one of his/her parents upset, a barrier exists that is in the way of building that trust.

Waiting until custody has been resolved can also provide a more supportive environment for therapy. Once custody has been determined they have a sense of greater consistency and predictability for their living situation. This, in itself, will provide a greater sense of security and safety, which also leads to better outcomes for therapy.

We understand that waiting to start therapy may be difficult for you and your child. However, we firmly believe that this is in the best interests of your child’s mental health and wellbeing. Once custody has been resolved we would be pleased to work with your child to provide the support and care that your child needs to thrive.

In the meantime, we are able to offer support/therapy to you, as a parent, with a focus on your needs and strengthening your parenting skills. There may also be other resources that you might find helpful, which we would be pleased to discuss with you. Please feel free to reach out if you have any questions or concerns.

Respectfully

Nicole Hotson, H.B.A. (Psych)., M.S.W., R.S.W, C.P.T., C.P.T.S., She/Her
Owner/Executive Director
Registered Social Worker/Psychotherapist Certified Play
Therapist/Supervisor
Hope Child Therapy