Reunification Therapy
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 holding a clear direction forward.
What we focus on:
We don't relitigate the past. We look at what's happening now, and what needs to change for your child to feel safe enough to reconnect.
→ 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 being triangulated or pressured.
→ 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.
SECTION 3 — My Background (mirrors "why my approach is different" from co-parenting page)
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 clarity 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.
Because I understand the legal landscape of family transitions, I can coordinate with the professionals already involved in your case and communicate with the court when appropriate.
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.