eNEWS

In this compelling interview, AFCC's co-chair of the professional development committee, Shely Polak, sat down with Barbara Fidler, one of the great influencers in her own career, to chat about the many ways an experienced expert can mentor and support new professionals in the field. Barbara shares wisdom gained from years in the field, offering practical advice on overcoming challenges, developing expertise, and navigating professional growth. Whether you're just starting out or looking to elevate your success, this interview is packed with valuable takeaways you won’t want to miss! The video and transcript are available here.

Much ink has been spilled on the topic of children resisting or refusing contact with a parent following divorce or separation, and with good reason. The political and legislative landscapes related to what are now commonly referred to as “parent-child contact problems” continue to shift and evolve, developments which only add to the complexity of these already challenging family situations.

For the mental health practitioner tasked with assisting a family that is experiencing a parent-child contact problem, consulting the relevant professional literature may lead to the impression that a team approach, with a different therapist assigned to each family member, is the optimal strategy for addressing these cases. Indeed, some authors appear to be of the view that a single therapist cannot effectively work with families struggling with a parent-child contact problem. With this perspective in mind, the natural starting point is clear: Adopt a collaborative treatment approach utilizing multiple coordinated therapists to assist such families.

But what are you to do if a team approach is not possible? 

Evaluations conducted within the context of child custody litigation can be among the most complex evaluations undertaken by mental health professionals. Data collection for these evaluations typically falls into one of several foundational categories: direct and collateral interviews, psychological testing, review of records, and observed interactions. Within the category of ‘records,’ data from emails, text messages, social networking site (SNS) posts, various cell, tablet, or computer applications, and other online sources of interpersonal communication can provide evaluators with information useful for their evaluation’s purpose.

Happy New Year, and All the Best in 2025!
As we enter the new year, I’m excited to reflect on our shared commitment to building solutions for families navigating complex transitions. My focus for 2025 will be on Framing, Reframing, and Depolarizing—three interconnected approaches that I believe can inspire innovation, collaboration, and transformation in family law practice. I hope you will join me in centralizing these themes in your work this year.