SPARC Forums

So child is in counseling. Mom decided she dident like the first counselor.  so she is changing to another counselor. I plan on being in on this next session.

I have joint legal and physical custody of child. Do I have any say in picking the therapist. ( I have a feeling mom will be seaching for a therapist that will agree with her specifically.

I have been told to search out a LMFT therapist... (Licensed marriage and family therapist

I think the one she picked to go see is a licenced clinical social worker

Mom will not want to hear I have just as much power as her.

Yes, legally you do but in reality ...no, mom will start visits. BUT , I would go see new therapist yourself and sign waiver for her to talk to old therapist. Social workers can be good or bad too. Really depends on the person and not the license they have in our experience. Tell the new therapist facts and focus on you having a relationship with child.
You can try to find one yourself and then have that therapist name ordered in a court order.

I agree -- legally it can be a tug of war -- both of you legally have the right to make decisions for the child.  This means that either side can "undo" what the other decides.

SO.....long term effect?  Mom or Dad runs to court and complains and the judge will decide WHO gets to make the final decision.  I had a "final decision" making sentence in my order and DAD translated that into "Sole Custody"....that got him into some hot water with the judge. 

When you're dealing with a witch/warlock, it makes things really difficult -- definitely agree to that.  Ocean gives you a good idea.  Maybe both will be of value.  And I'd definitely turn to the direction with the best or most valid credentials.

I suggest approaching the court for CONFIRMATION that it is BEST for the child for the parents to collaborate in choosing and utilizing professional counseling services. 

This is at the very essence of "joint" arrangements and hopefully will go a long way in removing all the adverserial pent-up "golden uterus" philosophies in all matters concerning the child.