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Sometimes a divorcing parent or a family in transition can find themselves in a hurtful, angry, and confrontational relationship that seems to be spiraling out of control. Even though you know that such an environment may adversely affect your children for years to come, you can’t seem to find a way to reduce the conflict and create lasting agreements. In this atmosphere, disputes can end up in court time after time.

If this is describes your situation, a parent coordinator may be the professional who can best help you. A parent coordinator (often appointed by the court) is a professional who assists parents in implementing safe and workable parenting plans. A parent coordinator has expertise in divorce, families, children, and custody scheduling issues. Parent coordinators are used when chronic, unresolved conflict and/or ineffective parenting communication is impeding the working relationship of the parents.

An experienced parent coordinator will impartially and respectfully listen to the concerns of each parent. Trained in conflict resolution, they can help you discuss your problems in a less charged manner and communicate effectively to negotiate ongoing parenting decisions. Parent coordinators are schooled in child development, so they can advise you about your children’s developmental, physical and emotional needs. Finally, they are trained mediators who can help you develop specific and enforceable co-parenting and custody agreements, which can then be reviewed and agreed upon by each parent’s respective lawyer.

If necessary (for example, if the court has mandated it), a parent coordinator can play the role of arbitrator—deciding issues such as arranging holiday visits, scheduling events, and assigning parental tasks.

Over time, a skillful coordinator will save you time and money that you might otherwise spend in the court system. The communication skills they teach can serve you well for the years of co-parenting to come.

Call Roberta Eisen at 202-822-5229 or email her at Roberta@RobertaEisen.com to learn more about parent coordination and arrange for an appointment. Roberta’s extensive experience, wide-ranging skill and caring attitude can help you move from conflict to resolution.