Bond University in Queensland has opened a family dispute resolution clinic where students will work with experienced practitioners to provide affordable dispute resolution and mediation services to families.
“The Clinic has been developed to assist families and children who are facing the challenges of separation and who need assistance in making both short and long-term parenting arrangements,” said Libby Taylor, co-director of the Bond University Family Dispute Resolution Clinic.
“The demand for this style of service is quite high, with families often forced to wait for some time for dispute resolution, which can make a stressful situation even more difficult. The students, under the guidance and supervision of accredited family dispute resolution practitioners, will work with these families to establish effective post-separation parenting arrangements, helping to reduce the negative effects of separation and conflict, particularly on children.”
The new clinic was established by the joint efforts of Bond University’s Faculty of Law and its Psychology Clinic. In addition to increasing access to dispute resolution services, it will also refer clients to other professionals who can offer additional support and guidance.
Taylor said that there is an increased demand for affordable dispute resolutio and mediation services, which is what the clinic aims to address.
“We want to provide a safe and supportive environment, which meets the needs of the community, while providing our students with valuable experience so they are well equipped to deal with these complex issues when they become accredited family dispute resolution practitioners,” she said.
Psychology Clinic director Deborah Wilmoth said psychological risk factors, which may need to be addressed in the dispute resolution and mediation process, will be identified in the clinic by provisionally-registered psychologists working with qualified staff.
“The new clinic will provide clients with a ‘”one-stop shop”, where they can access psychological support as part of the family dispute resolution assessment, rather than needing to seek help elsewhere. We will also be offering a dedicated course for parents who are going through separation to help them understand the impact it can have on children,” she said.
Libby Taylor and Deborah Wilmoth
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