
Centering the Child in Psychological Assessments: What Family Lawyers Need to Know By Danyelle Mastroianni Psychologist
Centering the Child in Psychological Assessments: What Family Lawyers Need to Know – By Danyelle Mastroianni Psychologist
Psychological wellbeing is shaped by more than the presence or absence of mental illness. . . .
Psychological wellbeing is shaped by more than the presence or absence of mental illness. Experiences of trauma, shame, relationships and self-perception all influence how people cope with life’s challenges and engage with others. For professionals working with individuals and families, understanding these factors is essential to providing effective, compassionate care.
In this article, Danyelle Mastroianni reflects on contemporary approaches to emotional health, drawing on her experience as a psychologist working with trauma, anxiety, depression and complex emotional presentations. She highlights the importance of evidence-based, trauma-informed practice and fostering self-compassion as foundations for healing and long-term psychological wellbeing.
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Centering the Child in Psychological Assessments: What Family Lawyers Need to Know – By Danyelle Mastroianni Psychologist

When Neutrality Causes Harm: Oudeterogenic Dynamics in Parenting Disputes – By Albert Huntoon, MSW

Al Huntoon provides a clear and coherent explanation of ‘asymmetric conflict’ , introducing us to the term ‘oudeterogenic harm’.

Revisiting Re Jamie: Why Diana Bryant’s Recent Reflections Matter for Family Law and Clinical Practice – By Clare Rowe, Educational & Developmental Psychologist, Rowe and Associates

Family Therapy Orders in Family Law Proceedings can assist with improved communication and listening skills; understanding each other’s needs; and transitioning through family separation.

Judges need an extraordinary degree of knowledge and experience. They have a very tough job in making decisions for families and children at a time of great vulnerability.

Being an FDRP and Parenting Coordinator allows a unique opportunity to assist families at what is likely to be an extremely stressful transition in their lifetime.

A Single Expert Witness appointed by the court has the opportunity to intervene, assist and support children during what could be the most difficult time in their childhoods

Cognitive bias is held to be the greatest risk to forensic neutrality and objectivity in child custody and other forensic work. Many parents often feel that the report writer is biased when a report comes in against that parent’s wishes.

Post-Separation Parenting Smartphone Apps are being mandated by some judges as the primary mode of communication in high-conflict cases. Family lawyers, mediators and mental health professionals are also increasingly being asked by clients about post-separation apps.