The best interests of the child/ren are the primary focus in family mediation & include:

• a meaningful relationship with both parents
• physical & psychological protection
• parental capacity
• violence orders
• changes in circumstances
• views/maturity of the child

Meaningful relationships aren’t made by quantity over quality of time spent. The presumption of shared responsibility is determined by shared decision-making.

The science is interesting. Children are pre-programmed to form attachment & seek proximity for comfort, protection & feelings. For healthy neural pathways to grow, basic needs must be met. Time is not a big factor. There are different types of time that count – overnight, togetherness, outside, special days, and just as importantly, away time & time with friends.

There can be blocks caused by the parents and/or due to where they fall on the separation spectrum. One party is usually further along the path to moving forward than the other. There can be personality disorders, mental illness, financial motivations, rejection, dependency, new partners, inability to let go, anger/pain & so on.

During mediation, fixed views can be gently challenged, resources for education provided, & tools used to keep children prioritised in the decision making so that workable solutions can be tailored to the family’s specific circumstances. Sometimes, child-inclusive practice can be helpful.

The flexibility of mediation means it can work for any family & ensure the children remain the focus.

Contact us for help finding the best solution for your family.