In FRSC, a Family Consultant (FC) works with each family. The Family Consultant is a mental health professional with knowledge about children’s developmental needs and their need to keep good relationships with both parents. The FC also understands the feelings adults and children may have during the process of establishing two households.
The Family Consultant will meet with you in an Initial Parenting Consultation to learn more about your situation. They can support you in making the most of the FRSC process. The FC will likely meet with you several times to help you prepare for each stage of the process and stay on top of problems if they arise.
The FC is not your therapist or counselor, but they will try to help you look forward and gain the skills you need to work cooperatively with your co-parent. The FC will also offer you information for helping your child/ren adjust to the parenting schedule and all the other changes that are happening. The FC can work with you if you have problems sharing information or making decisions with your co-parent about the children and will offer suggestions for how you can improve your communication. After getting to know you, the FC may suggest resources in the community including counseling for emotional support, financial or housing advice, or parenting classes.
The FC will help you prepare for each Court Conference and will be at the Court Conference with you. The FC will usually summarize your situation for the Judge and give recommendations for your next steps in the court process. The FC will work together with the full FRSC Team to support you and your family throughout the process.