Collaboration Strategies Between Family Counselors and Attorneys in Child Abuse and Neglect Cases,Child Custody Cases and Reporting

Abstract

In this interview, Deirdra Ward, JD, provides guidance to family counselors whose clients are involved with Children’s Protective Services (CPS). Ms. Ward addresses such issues as court appearances, documentation, working within scope of practice, and understanding and communicating effectively with attorneys. Ms. Ward also outlines procedures for reporting abuse as well as the type of information marriage and family counselors should report to the court when working with a family under investigation by CPS.