A court order can direct a family toward reunification therapy, but it does not by itself establish that a particular clinician has accepted the case. Contact the practice to clarify availability, role, and necessary arrangements.
What should I do after an order is entered?
Keep a complete copy of the current order and any later changes. Contact the practice to ask about case acceptance and the process for supplying documents. Being named in an order does not, by itself, confirm that the practice has accepted the matter or scheduled treatment.
If an appointment deadline or hearing is approaching, mention the date when you contact the practice. Do not assume that an approaching deadline guarantees availability.
Experience with the complexity around your family
Dr. Washam’s professional statement describes work in at least 55 court-related family matters since 2020, spanning reunification, co-parenting, and related interventions. His approach remains focused on the child’s wellbeing and the quality of family relationships.
He begins without taking either parent’s side. The work considers relevant information, individual perspectives, and what would support safe, healthier connection within the scope of the order.
What needs to be clear in the order?
The parties and the clinician should understand the requested role, who is expected to participate, and what the court has actually directed. Unclear expectations are best raised before treatment starts.
Useful questions include whether the order addresses professional communication, access to relevant records, fees, and reporting. Counsel should handle requests for legal clarification; the website does not supply a universal order or interpret your order.
Will everything be reported to the court?
Do not assume either complete secrecy or automatic disclosure of every session. The treatment framework, applicable rules, authorizations, and orders matter. Ask for a clear explanation of information sharing before discussing sensitive details.
Ask who may receive updates, whether written reports are contemplated, how requests for records are handled, and whether testimony is part of the engagement. Any answer needs to relate to your actual matter.
Does the therapist decide custody or enforce the order?
Treatment and legal decision-making have different purposes. A parent should not approach reunification treatment as a way to secure a promised custody recommendation or a guaranteed change in parenting time.
If participation is disputed or you believe an order is being violated, take the legal issue to counsel. Ask the therapist how the clinical process can be clarified without asking the clinician to act outside the agreed role.
How do we prepare?
Gather the documents you already have, identify involved professionals, and write down questions about participation, payment, and communication. Wait for instructions before sending records.
Dr. Washam’s separate professional section explains referral considerations for attorneys and courts. Parents are welcome to inquire directly; a professional referral is not a prerequisite to asking about the process.
Sources & further reading
Dr. Charles W. Washam: Professional Statement of Qualifications and Methodology
AFCC: Guidelines for Court-Involved Therapy (2010)Dr. Washam: reunification therapy