What do I need to know about my psychological evaluation for custody?

Published on August 5, 2019

Divorce is stressful.  It can be even more stressful if a judge court orders psychological evaluation for custody. The order usually happens in high conflict divorces where the divorcing parents are unable to agree about custody outside of court or in mediation.  Playing games with the psychologist, the court and the judge is a bad idea and will only catch up with you one way or another.  Here are some pointers to show the psychologist you are a capable parent.

The psychologist wants what’s best for the child

Most psychologists believe that children should have a secure relationship with both parents.

Lying will only prolong the process

Psychologists that do custody reports are assuming that they will be lied too by either one or both of the parents.  If the psychologist suspects you are lying, they will investigate further, which will cost more time and money. If you are caught lying, it will be noted in the report. It is not wise to wait until the last minute to schedule your appointment with the psychologist because they might assume you are playing a game.

Don’t block access with the other parent

Blocking access is a form of emotional abuse for the child.If you have strong evidence of sexual or physical abuse, contact the police immediately.  Do not accuse your partner of abuse if it is not true.

Revenge is not a good idea

If you do things to get revenge on your partner, the psychologist will see it and note it. Retaliation will only hurt you and could result in supervised access.

Do not coach the children what to say

Coaching the children will result in stress for the child, and can be recognised by a trained psychologist.  It is important to speak to your child about divorce in an appropriate way that does not cause your child harm.

Co-operate

Co-operate with the psychologist so that they know that you are a person that can function in society and as a parent.

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To set up an appointment with me please contact +852 2521 4668 or email m.borschel@mindnlife.com

Photo by Jordan Whitt on Unsplash


Category(s):Divorce / Divorce Adjustment

Written by:

Dr Monica Borschel

Welcome! My passion is to help you find inner peace and emotional comfort within yourself and your relationships.

As social creatures, our relationships significantly shape our happiness, well-being, and sense of self-worth. Unfortunately, many of us have experienced relationship-related traumas, which can leave us with emotional scars that require recovery.

Attachment traumas, such as divorce, break-ups, infidelity, neglect, and abuse, can be challenging. As an expert in attachment, loss, and trauma, I have spent many years studying how attachment styles can shift with loss and trauma.

I have seen how healthy relationships can lead to secure attachment and how insecure attachment can create turmoil in our lives. I aim to guide you toward cultivating healthy relationships with yourself, your children, your co-parent, and your romantic partner.

I can help you develop new attachment strategies that will allow you to form deeper connections and bonds with those around you. And, if you have children, I can also assist you in establishing secure attachments with both parents, which can be especially helpful in cases of separation or divorce.

I am originally from Salt Lake City, Utah, where I completed my Bachelor of Science in Psychology at The University of Utah. From there, I moved to New York City, earning my Master’s in Clinical Psychology from Columbia University. I then pursued my Doctorate in Social Work and Social Administration at the University of Hong Kong. I lived and worked in Hong Kong as a practicing Clinical Psychologist from 2010-2020. I reside in California and am pursuing my Doctorate in Psychology (PsyD) at California Southern University. My training and qualifications include certifications in Brainspotting and High Conflict Coaching.

These tools, combined with my extensive knowledge and experience in the field, enable me to offer you the guidance and support you need to recover from past traumas and build healthy relationships.

My approach to therapy is empathetic, supportive, and tailored to your unique needs. Every person can grow, and thrive. I am committed to helping you achieve your goals. So, whether you are struggling with relationship issues, divorce, abuse, attachment traumas, or other challenges, I am here to help you find the peace and comfort you deserve.

Email me at info@doctormonicaborschel.com or call the MindnLife Clinic at 852 2521 4668