A Family Report is a comprehensive independent assessment of the family unit that is prepared by our highly experienced psychologist. A Family Report is used to assist parties when determinations are being made about the best parenting arrangements for children.
At Family Psych Matters, we offer a comprehensive and independent Family Report to assist parties in making informed decisions that prioritise the well-being of the children. We understand that going through a separation can be an emotionally challenging time for families, especially when it comes to determining the best parenting arrangements for children.
Our highly experienced psychologist, conducts a thorough assessment of the family unit, analysing factors that may impact the children’s development and well-being. This includes examining their relationship with each parent and each parent’s capacity to care for them both in the short and long term.
Our Family Report comprises detailed background information about each party involved in the proceedings, any issues pertaining to the dispute, and any other relevant observations. We ensure that children’s voices are heard throughout the legal process and that their opinions and concerns are taken into account.
Additionally, our Family Report contains our professional assessment of the family and her recommendations for the most beneficial parenting arrangements for the children. We prioritise the children’s needs and strive to achieve the most desirable outcome for their care and development.
At Family Psych Matters, we believe that every child has a right to a stable, safe, and wholesome family life. We are committed to providing a comprehensive, independent, and professional assessment that can assist parties and the court in making informed decisions that prioritise the well-being and best interests of the children.
A Family Report can assist the Court with its recommendation process by assessing:
- Parental roles and responsibilities;
- The time spent with each parent;
- Safety issues and potential risks, including any family violence and physical or sexual abuse as well as mental illness and substance use issues;
- The views of the child;
- Areas for improved communication between the parents; and
- Post-separation support services and interventions, such as parenting programs and counselling to assist children or parents
The process in completing a Family Report:
1.
After commissioning a Family Report, our experienced psychologist will arrange interviews and observation sessions with the parents and children who are the subject of the report
2.
Meetings concerning all parties involved in the Family Report, including respective children and significant other parties, will be undertaken by our psychologist.
3.
Interviews will be conducted with all parties involved to ascertain their views, concerns, proposals and responses to the issues in the dispute and observations made of the children with each parent. The observation will not occur if a child does not meet the age requirements or does not wish to be interviewed.
4.
During the interview and observation sessions, we devote adequate time to engage with the children and create a comfortable environment to facilitate their participation. At Family Psych Matters, we prioritise the safety and well-being of children, our compassionate and empathetic approach ensures that their emotional needs are met throughout the process.
A Family Report may address the following:
- Family history;
- Background to the dispute;
- Issues in the dispute;
- Children's history;
- Your children's views;
- Your children's individual needs; and/or
- Risk factors, including any history of family violence, mental health, substance use or sexual abuse.
- Recommendations
Tips to ensure your children are prepared for their interview and assessment for the Family Report:
- Inform your children they will see our psychologist, who will help work out the best way for them to spend time with the people who are important to them;
- Communicate with the children that their appointment will take about two hours but that you may be there for most of the day;
- Consider the best interests of your children through a ‘how’ and ‘why’ lens;
- Note any concerns or issues you would like to discuss during the visit and the proposals you wish to put forward;
- Come prepared with food for the day; and
- Be mindful that neither parent will gain an advantage by interviewing first.
Fee: $7,000 + GST
Note: Fee is for report writing only, other fees may be incurred if required. Find out more
