In the absence of clearer direction from the Judicial Branch of the California Courts, the current process for interested mental health professionals to qualify as approved Parenting Plan Evaluators has left many confused, apprehensive, and overwhelmed. Current evaluators who are eager to assist training others similarly struggle to participate in mentoring without feeling at risk for complaints from angry litigant parents. Fortunately, much work has been done by individuals and groups, many affiliated with AFCC-CA, to define the process and develop practical guidelines for becoming an approved evaluator beyond readily available didactic training requirements. This moderated conversation will present guidelines for the mentoring process intended to make acquiring court approval not only possible, but offer ideas for reducing bias and developing an awareness of the broad range of issues which impact parenting plan recommendations. The panel will specifically discuss risk management strategies for mentors and mentees. Panel members include experienced PPEs as well as early and mid-career professionals who have cleared necessary hurdles and are enjoying the benefits and rewards of helping families at a time of transition and turmoil.
Learning Objectives:
- Participants will be able to describe the necessary qualifications, requirements and processes to become a Parenting Plan Evaluator.
- Participants will be able to identify the practical guidelines to become a Parenting Plan Evaluator including the mentoring process.
- Participants will be able to differentiate risk management strategies in order to reduce bias in PPEs.