Parenting Assessments

A parenting assessment is typically completed when a dependency and/or family court wants unbiased information about a parent's ability to care for their child or children. The court uses the parenting assessment in their decision regarding the best placement for a child.

Our purpose is to gain a clear, unbiased picture of the parent/child relationships and parenting skills. During our visit with the child/children and parent we ask questions, listen, and observe. We interview the child/children involved, the parent, and we observe parent/child interactions.

The assessment includes a review of:

• Family and parenting history; this may include abusive behavior, neglect, drug violence, and substance abuse
• An examination of the parent’s attachment to their children
• Parenting and discipline skills
• Parenting stresses
• Potential for abusive behavior
• Ability to seek services for the child's needs
• Collateral contacts such as teachers, medical and mental health providers, family members, guardian ad litem, CASA, etc.
• Record review

Our report includes recommendations regarding parenting abilities and a treatment plan for the parent. The court uses our unbiased report as part of their decision for the best placement for the child/children.

Contact us today for more information about parenting assessments.