Protocol

The following protocol must be accepted and understood by all parties.

Non-compliance with any rules may lead to termination of services.

The program is designed to ensure the safety and welfare of children and adults during visits and promote a positive relationship between the visiting adult and the child in a neutral environment. Notes are kept on the context of the visits that include activities engaged in, communication between the parent and child and observation of parent-child interactions. Documentation and monitoring the transfer of child between parents can be recorded.

Scheduling is flexible for supervised visitations and is arranged between SSMS and the parties. Fees are assessed and a contractual agreement is signed by all parties before the first visitation with SSMS.

We strive to provide the utmost professional service by following the guidelines and principals of the Supervised Visitation Network (SVN), of with SSMS is a member.

Cases are accepted based on available resources and at the discretion of SSMS. Upon referral and prior to accepting the case, an intake will be conducted for the purposes of obtaining relevant information about the case, the parents, and the child/children, including any accommodations or special circumstances.

Tips for the visiting parent:

Being with your children in the presence of someone else may be uncomfortable for you, at least in the beginning. You probably have many questions and concerns, and that is perfectly understandable. Do your best to focus on your relationship with your children. Your patience and commitment are important during this time.

Here are some suggestions that might be helpful to you:

• • • If court mandated read the court order

    • Arrive and depart on time.

    • Avoid discussing the court case or terms of the visit with your children.

    • Avoid quizzing your children about the other parent’s activities and relationships.

    • Avoid making your children messengers to the other parent.

    • Say brief and positive good-byes to your children when the visit is over.

Tips for the custodial parent:

Supervised visitation can also be a challenge for you. Typically, you have been taking care of your children’s everyday needs and have a routine for yourself and your family. Supervised visitation can sometimes feel like one more responsibility. Of course, you also have concerns and questions about the visits and how they will affect your children. This is understandable.

Here are a few suggestions that might help you in the process:

• • • If court mandated read the court order.

    • Explain to your children where and when the visits will take place.

    • Have your children ready with anything they will need during the visits.

    • Arrive on time to drop off and pick up your children.

    • Reassure your children that you support them in having a pleasant visit.

    • Avoid quizzing your children about the visit.

    • Avoid making your children messengers to the other parent.