A Developmentally-Informed, Child-Centered Process
Custody and parenting time mediation is a structured, non-adversarial process that I offer to assist parents in resolving disputes related to the care and time-sharing of their children. My role in this process is to support both parents in working collaboratively to develop parenting arrangements that reflect the developmental needs of their children and minimize the emotional impact of conflict. Although I work directly with the parents, the process remains centered on the best interests of the children at all times.
My Qualifications and Scope of Role
As a licensed psychologist with advanced training in both forensic and clinical psychology, I serve as a neutral facilitator throughout the mediation process. I have also completed the 40-hour divorce mediation training through the New Jersey Association of Professional Mediators and have training in family collaborative law.
Parenting Time Mediation
While serving as mediator, I do not act as a therapist, evaluator, or legal advisor, and I do not serve as an advocate for either parent. It is important to understand that once I begin work in a mediation capacity, I am ethically precluded from assuming any other professional role with your family in the future.
Mediation Structure and Communication
The process typically begins with individual meetings so that I can gather relevant history and understand the primary concerns. From there, I facilitate joint sessions aimed at helping parents communicate more effectively, identify areas of disagreement, and work toward consensus on custody and parenting time issues. I maintain a transparent communication structure by requiring that all correspondence with me occur jointly and in writing, usually by email.
Confidentiality and Legal Protections
If I am appointed by the court or jointly consented in a court Order to serve as the mediator of custody and parenting time, the process remains confidential, consistent with New Jersey Court Rule 1:40 governing complementary dispute resolution. This rule affords mediation a qualified privilege of confidentiality, meaning that communications made during the course of mediation—including statements, offers, or disclosures—are not admissible in court and cannot be used as evidence by either party. The goal of this protection is to promote candid dialogue and problem-solving without fear that these communications will later be used against either party in litigation. While the mediation itself is confidential, limited exceptions apply, such as disclosures related to child abuse, threats of harm, or if both parties waive confidentiality in writing. I take these standards seriously and apply them consistently regardless of whether I am retained privately or appointed by the court.
Why Psychological Expertise Matters
Choosing a psychologist to serve as your custody and parenting time mediator can be particularly helpful when there are complex or high-conflict dynamics involved. My background allows me to approach these matters with a strong understanding of child development, the emotional needs of children, and the relational patterns that may be contributing to ongoing conflict. I work to create an environment where parents can begin to de-escalate tension, focus on what matters most, and make informed decisions that support their children’s well-being. Mediation is not a substitute for legal process, but it can be a constructive alternative to litigation—one that allows families to move forward with clarity, respect, and a shared commitment to their children.