Parenting Coordinator and Therapist Collaboration in High-Conflict Shared Custody Cases

The complexity of many high-conflict shared custody cases creates enormous and often overwhelming challenges to a therapist and/or parenting coordinator (PC) independently involved in such situations. Unfortunately, having both therapeutic and PC roles involved in a case does not assure effective work with these families. This article describes the distinctions between these roles, their synergies, and challenges faced when attempting to provide coordinated interventions in high conflict cases. Essential elements of collaborative team functioning are presented, and numerous strategies to address common issues that confront professionals working on these cases are provided.