Parenting Coordinators

Description
Parenting Coordinators may be appointed in high-conflict child custody cases to help parents carry out the provisions of a child custody order in regard to the best interest of the child(ren) and reduce the family’s reliance on the court. The main purpose of the Parenting Coordinator is to reduce conflict between parents and refocus them on the child(ren)’s needs. They educate and improve communication while negotiating differences parents may have. A Parenting Coordinator may help with decisions regarding visitation schedules and transportation, vacation and holidays, as well as the health, education and emotional needs of a child. Parenting Coordinators are compensated by the parties of the contested custody case.

Qualifications
Must have a master’s or doctoral degree in psychology, law, social work, or counseling, and no less than five years of related professional post degree experience.

Must have attended Judicial District 15B’s combined Parenting Coordinator and Civil District Guardian ad Litem training which consists of 24 hours of classroom training, or other comparable training program.

Must hold a current North Carolina license in the Parenting Coordinator’s area of practice. Participate in 24 hours of training in topics related to the developmental stages of children, the dynamics of high-conflict families, the stages and effects of divorce, problem-solving techniques, mediation, and legal issues.

Supervision
Participate in an ongoing seminar on at least a quarterly basis, to include continuing education, group discussion, and peer review and support. Monthly peer consultation among approved Parenting Coordinators is encouraged.