WHAT IS COLLABORATIVE

Collaborative Practice (CP) is a resolution-focused, holistic approach to separation & divorce. Supported by an interdisciplinary team of professionals, clients work together with respect and open communication to reach resolution on all issues arising out of their separation; parenting, property and support. 

ROLE OF FAMILY PROFESSIONAL

A family professional is an integral part of your collaborative team. As a family professional I can support the process in the following ways;

NEUTRAL FACILITATOR

  1. Facilitate effective communication and foster a safe enviroment in settlement meetings and amongst team members.

  2. Act as point person for the management of process; scheduling meetings, addressing process concerns and questions etc.

  3. Support a client-centered and family-focused process.

  4. Screen for appropriateness; domestic violence and power imbalance.

MEDIATOR

  1. Mediate parenting plans and co-parenting related issues.

  2. Coordinate and integrate children’s views and preferences when appropriate.

CHILD CONSULTANT

  1. Provide children with a voice in the process by meeting with the them to ascertain their wishes and preferences.

SEPARATION COACH

  1. Help clients to enhance effective communication.

  2. Support clients to articulate their needs and concerns in a constructive way.

  3. Provide information & education around the impact of separation and conflict on children.

  4.  Provide information & education around developmental needs of children in relation to parenting time.

  5. Help parents develop dialog for talking to children about hard topics such as separation/divorce, introduction of new partners etc. 

PROCESS

An interdisciplinary team is developed including, lawyers, family professional and a financial specialist, all of whom are collaboratively-trained.

As a family professional I will meet each client individually to screen for appropriateness. The role of the family professional and financial specialist will be determined prior to first joint session. 

A Participation Agreement is signed by all parties. 

Settlement meetings are held to discuss issues and work towards agreement. Team members will be selectively scheduled to attend meetings where their specialty will be helpful for the resolution of the issue being discussed. 

Once an agreement is reached, lawyers will prepare a comprehensive Separation Agreement.