Divorce can have a profound and lasting impact on families, particularly children. Even when they are not directly involved in divorce proceedings, children often experience significant emotional distress during and after their parents’ separation. Recognizing the potetnial harm that divorce can inflict on children, the New York court system prioritizes their protection. One of the ways courts safeguard children’s well-being is through court-ordered therapy. Please continue reading as we explore the circumstances that may lead a judge to mandate therapy, what you can expect from these therapeutic sessions, and the importance of connecting with an experienced Nassau County Child Custody Lawyer.
In Custody Disputes, When Do Courts Order Therapy for Children?
In New York, a court can order therapy for a child during custody disputes. This typically occurs if it’s deemed in the child’s best interests. It’s important to note that the court prioritizes the child’s best interests when making custody decisions. This therapeutic intervention can take various forms, including individual sessions, sessions with a parent, or a combination of both. The specific format and duration of court-ordered therapy will depend on the unique circumstances of your situation.
If a court believes that one party is deliberately alienating the child from the other parent, it can order therapy to help the child form a relationship with the other parent. Reunification therapy can essentially help the child re-establish a relationship with the alienated parent. You should note that judges can also mandate co-parenting counseling or parenting education classes for parents to help them learn how to communicate effectively and cooperate to reduce conflict. The therapist will assess the child’s or parent’s needs to develop a treatment plan to address those needs.
Court-ordered therapy can be a valuable tool for protecting children during and after divorce. A judge may order therapy for a child or parent involved in a divorce for various reasons, including:
- High levels of conflict between parents
- Evidence of child abuse or neglect
- Substance abuse or mental health issues
- Child’s emotional or behavioral problems
What is the Goal of Court-Ordered Therapy?
The primary goal of court-ordered therapy is to safeguard the child’s best interests and promote their emotional well-being. Therapy can help children learn healthy ways to cope with family changes and provide them with a safe environment to express their feelings. In addition, it can teach parents healthy conflict resolution strategies to mitigate the negative impact on their children. It can equip parents with enhanced parenting skills, enabling them to foster a more stable and nurturing home for their child.
Court-ordered therapy can provide numerous benefits for children and families going through a divorce. At the Law Offices of Eyal Talassazan, P.C., we are prepared to help you navigate the complexities of this process. Connect with our firm today so we can get started working on your case.
