How to seek outside help for visitation issues

Introduction

Divorce can be a challenging time for children and parents alike. One of the most difficult issues to navigate post-divorce is visitation. Whether you are struggling to come to an agreement with your ex-spouse or feel that your children's well-being is at stake, seeking outside help can offer valuable support and guidance. In this article, we will explore different resources and strategies for dealing with visitation issues.

Mediation

Mediation can be a cost-effective and efficient way to resolve visitation issues. A neutral third-party mediator can help parents come to an agreement that works for everyone involved. In addition to being less expensive than litigation, mediation can also be less adversarial and stressful. If you are interested in mediation, you can search online for mediators in your area or contact your local court for referrals.

Benefits of Mediation:

• Less expensive than litigation
• More efficient than going to court
• Can result in a more amicable co-parenting relationship

Therapy

Divorce can take a toll on both parents and children. If you or your child are struggling with the emotional aftermath of divorce, therapy can be a helpful resource. A therapist can provide a safe and supportive space for you to discuss your feelings and work through any issues that may be affecting your ability to communicate effectively with your ex-spouse. Additionally, therapy can be an effective way to help children cope with the feelings of loss and uncertainty that often accompany divorce.

Types of Therapy:

• Individual therapy for adults
• Individual therapy for children
• Family therapy

Parenting Coordination

If you and your ex-spouse are struggling to make important decisions regarding your children, parenting coordination can be a helpful resource. A parenting coordinator is a neutral third-party professional who can help guide you and your ex-spouse through the decision-making process. This can be especially useful if you have a high-conflict relationship with your ex-spouse or do not trust their judgment.

What a Parenting Coordinator Can Help With:

• Developing a parenting plan
• Coordinating schedules
• Ensuring compliance with court orders
• Resolving conflicts related to parenting

Court-Appointed Parenting Evaluators

In some cases, a court-appointed parenting evaluator may be necessary to help resolve visitation issues. A parenting evaluator is typically a mental health professional who will assess the relationship between you and your ex-spouse and make recommendations to the court regarding custody and visitation. While court-appointed parenting evaluators can be costly, they can also be a valuable resource in cases where there are significant concerns about the safety and well-being of the children involved.

What a Parenting Evaluator Might Do:

• Conduct interviews with parents and children
• Observe interactions between parents and children
• Review relevant documents and records
• Make recommendations to the court based on their findings

Conclusion

Seeking outside help for visitation issues can be a challenging but ultimately worthwhile process. Whether you opt for mediation, therapy, parenting coordination, or a court-appointed parenting evaluator, it is important to prioritize the well-being of your children while working towards a resolution that works for everyone involved.