Child-Centered Family Dispute Resolution
What Is Child-Centered Family Dispute Resolution?
Child-Centered Family Dispute Resolution (CCFDR) is a voluntary process that supports children aged 5–18 during family separation. Children meet with a trained practitioner in a safe, neutral space to share their feelings about the separation and family arrangements. Each parent attends an intake session first, and children have at least two sessions, including one individual session. The practitioner provides guidance and referrals if needed, without asking children to make parental decisions.
Why Use Child-Centered Family Dispute Resolution?
CCFDR helps parents understand how separation affects their children and encourages cooperation in decision-making. Feedback from children’s sessions guides parenting arrangements and supports children’s wellbeing. The process reduces conflict, promotes collaboration, and helps children cope, while parents are more satisfied with the agreements they make.
Contact us today!
Safe Space for Children
Children aged 5–18 meet with a trained practitioner to share their feelings about family separation.
Voluntary and Neutral
The process is optional, unbiased, and does not ask children to make parental decisions.
Guidance for Parents
Practitioners provide feedback and recommendations to help parents understand their children’s needs.
Supports Wellbeing
Helps children cope with separation, reduces conflict, and promotes collaborative parenting.
The Process
Parent Intake Sessions
Each parent attends an individual session with the Child-Centered Practitioner before children participate.
Children’s Sessions
Children attend at least two sessions, including one individual session; group sessions may be used if multiple children are involved.
Safe, Supportive Environment
Children can talk openly about the separation and family arrangements in a neutral space.
Practitioner Guidance
The CCP provides feedback and recommendations to parents (with the child’s consent) and may refer children for additional support if needed.
Parental Involvement
Parents are encouraged to take turns accompanying children to sessions at the Family Relationship Centre.
Voluntary & Non-Legal
Participation is optional, and session details are not admissible in court.
Is Child-Centered Family Dispute Resolution Right for You?
Consider the following:
Experience frequent disagreements over parenting decisions
Struggle with communication post-separation
Want to shield your children from ongoing parental disputes
Seek a structured approach to co-parenting
