Parenting Coordination
Structured support for navigating ongoing co-parenting conflict.
Parenting coordination provides a structured, neutral process for separated or divorced parents experiencing ongoing parenting disputes. The process focuses on implementing existing parenting arrangements, improving communication and problem-solving, and addressing recurring issues while keeping the needs of the children at the center.
What is Parenting Coordination?
Parenting Coordination is a structured process designed to help separated or divorced parents manage ongoing parenting disputes and implement their parenting plan more effectively. The process provides a neutral setting to identify specific areas of disagreement, improve problem-solving, and develop practical solutions focused on the needs of the children.
Parenting Coordination may involve addressing recurring concerns related to communication, parenting schedules, transitions, extracurricular activities, school-related matters, and other day-to-day parenting issues within the scope of parents’ agreement or court order.
The Parenting Coordinator serves in a neutral role and does not act as either parent’s therapist, attorney or advocate. The scope of services-and whether the Parenting Coordinator may make recommendations or decisions-is determined by the applicable court order, written appointment, or agreement between the parties.
How Parenting Coordination Can Help
Ongoing Co-Parenting Conflict
Support addressing recurring disagreements and patterns that make routine parenting decisions difficult.
Parenting Plan Implementation
Assistance navigating day-today issues that arise when implementing existing parenting plans, agreement, or court orders.
Problem-Solving & Decision-Making
A structured process for identifying specific disputes, considering workable options, and reaching agreements when possible.
A Structured, Neutral Process
Identify the Issue
Define the specific parenting concern, identify the area of disagreement, and determine what information is needed to address it.
Parenting Coordination is designed to provide parents with a clear process for addressing ongoing parenting disputes without allowing every disagreement to become another prolonged conflict.
The Parenting Coordinator works with both parents in a neutral role to identify the specific issue, clarify each parent’s concerns, review relevant parenting agreements or court orders, and help the parents explore practical options for resolution.
Depending on the terms of the appointment, the process may include individual or joint meetings, review of relevant communications or documentation, structured problem-solving, and recommendations or decisions when specifically authorized.
The goal is not to determine which parent is “right,” but to help establish a more effective way of managing parenting issues while keeping the children’s needs at the center. The process also supports parents in developing a more functional communication and problem-solving dynamic, with the goal of increasing their ability to address future parenting concerns and reducing unnecessary reliance on court intervention.
Work Toward Resolution
Consider each parent’s perspective, the applicable parenting plan or court order, and practical options for resolving the issue.
Create a Clear & Detailed Path Forward
Establish clear, specific agreements, recommendations, or decisions when authorized, including the practical details needed for implementation and to reduce misunderstandings or recurring disputes.
Have Questions About Parenting Coordination?
Parenting Coordination can look different depending on the needs of the family and the terms of the appointment. Schedule a consultation to discuss the process and whether these services may be appropriate for your situation.