When a child has become estranged from a parent, it rarely happens in a straight line. It builds through conflict, transitions, loyalty pressures, and patterns that have been in place sometimes for years.

As a court-appointed custody evaluator, I've seen what drives these ruptures. I help families find a way back.

Reunification Therapy: Rebuilding What's Been Broken

Reunification therapy is a structured, goal-oriented process designed to restore or strengthen the relationship between a child and an estranged parent. It's not traditional family therapy, and it's not about assigning blame. It's about carefully and thoughtfully rebuilding connection when a relationship has deteriorated, often in the context of high-conflict separation or divorce.

This work is intensive and requires all family members to participate. It moves at a pace that respects where your child is emotionally, while still moving forward.

What we focus on:

Understanding the rupture. What contributed to the estrangement, whether it's conflict, alienation, a difficult transition, or a combination, shapes how we approach the work.

The child's experience first. Children often feel caught in the middle. Our work creates space for them to express what they're feeling without pressure.

Structured contact and gradual reconnection. We don't force contact. We build toward it in a way that feels safe for your child and realistic for your family.

Parent accountability and skill-building. Reconnection requires change. Each parent's role in the estrangement, and in the repair, is addressed directly and without judgment.

Why my approach is different

My background as a child custody evaluator gives me a perspective most clinicians don't have. I've spent years evaluating family dynamics in high-conflict situations, seeing what actually drives estrangement, what makes reunification succeed, and what gets in the way.

That means I don't spend time guessing. I understand the legal context these families are navigating, and I bring structure and movement to a process that can otherwise feel chaotic or stalled.

I work collaboratively with attorneys, guardians ad litem, and the court when needed. If requested, I can submit written reports or provide testimony regarding the progress being made.

A Note on Accountability & The Court

Reunification therapy is solution-focused and structured. My job is to keep the process moving in a direction that serves your child's wellbeing, not to take sides or manage ongoing conflict indefinitely.

• Rate: $250 / hour

• Location: In-person in Pittsburgh

• Note: Reunification therapy typically requires participation from both parents and the child. An initial consultation will help determine whether this is the right fit.