Reunification Therapy in Colorado

A Practical Guide for Parents

What is a Reunification Therapist?

A reunification therapist is a licensed mental health professional (psychologist, counselor, or social worker) who helps repair and rebuild a damaged parent–child relationship.

This is usually ordered by the court in high-conflict custody cases where:

• A child is refusing or resisting contact with one parent (sometimes called “parent–child contact problems” or “parental alienation”).
• There has been a period of estrangement, absence, or conflict between parent and child.
• The court wants a structured process to restore a safe, healthy relationship.

Unlike regular counseling, reunification therapy focuses on re-establishing safe, appropriate, and consistent contact between parent and child.

Why Are They Necessary?

Colorado courts may order reunification therapy when it serves the best interests of the child.

Statutory Authority:

• C.R.S. § 14-10-124 – Parenting decisions must prioritize the child’s best interests.
• C.R.S. § 14-10-129(1)(b)(I) – Courts may impose conditions on parenting time, including therapy.
• C.R.S. § 14-10-129(4) – Parenting time may be restricted or supervised if necessary to prevent harm.
• C.R.S. § 14-10-128.3 – Permits the use of therapeutic dispute resolution or interventions.

Reasons therapy is considered necessary:

1. Neutral guidance – Provides a safe, structured, and neutral environment.
2. Child’s voice and safety – Ensures the child feels safe and heard.
3. Court oversight – Therapist can supply reports or testimony.
4. Preventing long-term harm – Prolonged estrangement may cause depression, anxiety, or trust issues.

Colorado Case Law Supporting Reunification Therapy

• In re Marriage of Hatton, 160 P.3d 326 (Colo. App. 2007) – Court may require therapy and parenting classes as conditions of parenting time.
• In re Marriage of Finer, 920 P.2d 325 (Colo. App. 1996) – Therapeutic conditions may be imposed to protect the child’s best interests.
• In re Parental Responsibilities of B.R.D., 2012 COA 63, 280 P.3d 78 – Restrictions on parenting time must be supported by findings of endangerment.
• In re Marriage of Jensen, 2021 COA 26, 486 P.3d 1016 – Courts may order reunification therapy if tied to best interests and not punitive.

When Do Courts Order Reunification Therapy?

• High-conflict divorce or custody cases (alienation or refusal of parenting time).
• Long absences caused by deployment, incarceration, or estrangement.
• Allegations of abuse, even if disputed, when contact is allowed under supervision.
• Breakdowns of parenting schedules where ordinary orders have failed.

Typical Process in Colorado

1. Court Order or Agreement – Judge issues order, allocates costs, and may name a therapist.
2. Assessment Phase – Therapist meets with the child, estranged parent, and sometimes the favored parent.
3. Treatment Plan – Therapist sets goals, session frequency, and expectations.
4. Structured Sessions – Early sessions in-office with guided activities.
5. Gradual Expansion – Progression from office → supervised visits → unsupervised visits → normal parenting schedule.
6. Parent Coaching – Parents may be required to take co-parenting classes or communication training.
7. Court Reports or Testimony – Therapist updates the court and may testify.
8. Transition – Goal is eventual normal parenting time without therapist oversight.

Step-by-Step: What Parents Should Expect

• Review the Court Order – Know deadlines, payment responsibilities, and requirements.
• Choose a Qualified Therapist – Licensed in Colorado, experienced, and court-approved.
• Intake and Assessment – Separate interviews with parents and child; review of court documents.
• Treatment Plan – Structured goals and expectations from the therapist.
• Structured Sessions – Short, guided sessions designed to build trust.
• Gradual Expansion – Only when child and therapist are ready.
• Parent Coaching – Both parents may receive instruction on co-parenting.
• Court Reports – Therapist may file written updates or testify.
• Compliance and Patience – The process often takes months.
• Long-Term Transition – Goal is safe, unsupervised parenting time.

Final Tips for Parents

• Stay child-focused – Keep conversations positive and supportive.
• Be reliable – Attend every session, on time.
• Document progress – Keep notes of attendance and progress.
• Be patient – Judges and therapists expect gradual improvement.

Helpful Resource

You can verify that your reunification therapist is properly licensed in Colorado through the state licensing portal:

Colorado License Lookup – Division of Professions and Occupations (DORA)

Bottom line: Colorado courts have both statutory authority and appellate case law support to order reunification therapy. These interventions are not punitive—they are protective, designed to safeguard the child’s best interests while preserving the parent–child bond.

Schedule a Confidential Free Initial Consultation

Matthew C. Clawson, Colorado Family Law Attorney

Serving clients throughout Colorado, including Colorado Springs, Falcon, Pueblo, Castle Rock, Teller County, Parker, and the surrounding Front Range communities.

If you would like more information about a divorce case review anywhere in Colorado, contact Matthew C. Clawson. We will answer your questions, evaluate your case, and provide clear guidance on the best course of action based on your individual needs and priorities.

Forbes has recognized Matthew C. Clawson as one of the best attorneys in Colorado. U.S. News & World Report has named Matthew and Clawson & Clawson LLP as one of the Best Law Firms in America. Matthew has also been honored by Colorado Super Lawyers and Best Lawyers in America. Matthew brings extensive experience to every matter, from complex high-net-worth property and custody cases to straightforward child support modifications. We understand the Colorado legal system and will help you navigate each stage of the process with confidence.

Matthew can be contacted directly at Matthew@clawson.law. To learn more about our top-rated legal services, please complete our online form or call 719-634-1848 or 303-805-9353 to schedule a free initial consultation.