PRACTICAL LIMITATIONS IN CONSIDERING PSYCHOTHERAPY WITH CHILDREN OF SEPARATION AND DIVORCE

The literature concerned with mental health professionals ' involvement in the court system has emphasized the limits and proper conduct of evaluative functions, for example, assessment in matters such as child custody and visitation. This article addresses the complementary but distinct function of performing psychotherapy with children involved in separation and divorce. While others have addressed the complex therapeutic issues inherent in this undertaking, this author focuses on many of the practical limits necessary which must be considered prior to accepting and while working with such cases in order to maximize the potential for therapeutic success and to minimize professional liability. The emphasis here is on five inter-related areas, including: 1) educating referral sources, 2) inclusion of both parents, 3) establishing a contract for treatment, 4) anticipating triangulation, and 5) considerations affecting the duration and termination of treatment. These matters are discussed within the context of rapidly evolving state mandates and legislation regarding divorce and parenting. Correspondence regarding this article should be addresse