Psychotherapy can be a very important resource for children of separation and divorce. Establishing a therapeutic alliance outside of the home can:
However, the usefulness of such therapy is extremely limited when the therapy itself becomes simply another matter of dispute between parents. With this in mind, and in order to best help your child, I strongly recommend that each of the child's caregivers (e.g., parents, stepparents, daycare workers, guardian ad litem [GAL]) mutually accept the following as requisites to participation in therapy.
I keep records of all contacts relevant to your child's well-being. These records will not be released to either parent without a court order unless I agree with both parents that it is in the child's best interest that these records be revealed. These records are subject to court subpoena and may, under some circumstances, be subpoenaed by parties to your divorce, including your attorneys.
Any matter brought to my attention by either parent regarding the child may be revealed to the other parent. Matters that are brought to my attention that are irrelevant to the child's welfare may be kept in confidence. However, these matters may best be brought to the attention of others, such as attorneys, personal therapists or counselors.
Your understanding of these points and agreement in advance of starting this therapy may resolve difficulties that would otherwise arise and will help make this therapy successful. Your signature, below, signifies that you have read and accept these points.