Parent Facilitation

"Nobody can really have custody of a child - You can control a child's behavior, but not their thoughts, loyalty or affection"

Robert Gordon is a nationally respected psychologist, attorney and expert in settlement science. Upon the recommendations of attorneys, mediators and judges, he ably serves as a parent coordinator or facilitator in family law cases. Boarded in his specialties by the American Board of Professional Psychology, he is recognized for his contribution to helping parents resolve pre and post divorce issues in an amicable, cooperative and friendly manner.

ChildrenThere are two models for helping parents resolving disputes which their attorneys advise do not need to be solved via the time and expense of a hearing in court. One model is called parent coordination. The other is called parent facilitation. Neither process replaces mediation or problem solving negotiations conducted by the attorneys. At the same time, the coordination and facilitation process is not the same thing as a custody evaluation, psychotherapy or a co-parenting class. It is a dispute resolution process.

A parent coordinator is given the responsibility of helping parents resolve conflicts concerning their children in the divorce and post divorce circumstance. Dr. Bob does so at the request of the family courts, parents and their attorneys., Dr Bob interviews the parents and children and meets with the parents to solve any issues which they have concerning their children. The issues addressed in the process are those which the parents' attorneys agree are best suited for this method of dispute resolution.

Family MontageA parent facilitator often has the same responsibilities as the coordinator. However the facilitator is also asked to provide a report to the court. The facilitator may be asked to give a deposition or to testify about the progress of the process at the request of the attorneys for the parents. The parents, with the consultation of their attorneys, decided which model is best for their situation.