1. Why does court-ordered therapy happen?
Relationships, finances, and families can be impacted by divorce. Although they aren't getting divorced, children often face serious emotional difficulties during and after the divorce process, especially if there is a lot of conflict involved.
Courts often order therapy to protect children. In court-ordered therapy, the child, the parent, or both can meet with a therapist.
The following article will explain what court-ordered therapy entails and what you can expect from it so you know what causes a judge to order it.
2. What situations cause court-ordered therapy?
Family members or even whole families may be ordered to attend therapy for a variety of reasons.
One reason may be to improve communication between the two parents during divorce. When a couple is going through a divorce, they may be stubborn and confrontational to the extent that important agreements, such as child custody, are being delayed. Depending on the circumstances, the court may order therapy to facilitate communication.
Reunification therapy is a different process. It focuses more on helping resolve a child's estrangement feelings fromhis or her noncustodial parent.
A family member may also be required to undergo therapy to overcome trauma caused by domestic abuse, drug addiction, or the negative influence of a delusional parent.
When a court recognizes signs of struggling mental health in a child, such as signs of depression or inappropriate outbursts of anger, that is sufficient to mandate therapy.
3. But, why is therapy needed?
There is more to counseling services than checking a box; they offer an opportunity for real change and progress in a relationship.
Parent-child relationships are one of the areas that can be improved. There are a variety of reasons why children pick sides during divorces, both good and bad. Therapy can help repair relationships, especially in circumstances where children have been deceived or lied to about by one or both of their parents.
Therapy plays a role in child custody disputes as well. When contention can be settled, then there is more space for safe and free conversations to happen. Children often struggle to share their real feelings and fears when custody battles occur.It is hoped that parents will be able to resolve tensions so they can gain more leeway in the eyes of the court and improve their chances for a more favorable custody arrangement.
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A family law attorney may be able to help you resolve your family issues if you are experiencing any of the above issues.Our clinic does not sponsor or work with one attorney office.
We do, however, work with a variety of family law and divorce cases. Whatever your situation may be, we can help you through your divorce, or other family conflict. Reach out to us today for a consultation.