Child-Inclusive Consultations
Bringing the child’s voice into gentle focus.
Child-Inclusive Consultations provide a calm, child-friendly space where children can share their experiences of family change in ways that feel safe, age-appropriate, and respectful.
Depending on the child’s age and developmental stage, sessions may involve gentle play, storytelling, drawing, reflection, or conversation. Children may share thoughts or feelings about matters affecting them, including family conflict or change, but they are not asked to choose between parents or carry responsibility for adult decisions.
My role is to understand how the child may be experiencing current arrangements, transitions, stress, and family dynamics — and to carefully translate those insights into feedback that supports parents to make more child-responsive decisions.
The consultation environment has been intentionally designed to feel warm, non-clinical, and sensory-considerate, helping children feel comfortable and at ease.
Research suggests that many children value having a safe opportunity to be heard during family change. When children’s experiences are thoughtfully considered, outcomes can be more supportive for both children and their parents.
My approach is informed by the Child-Inclusive Mediation model developed by Dr Jennifer McIntosh AM and grounded in principles of safety, consent, developmental respect, and emotional wellbeing.
Each child is different. Sessions are tailored to the child’s age, communication style, and individual needs.
Child-Inclusive Consultations are not counselling, therapy, or formal assessment, and they do not determine legal outcomes. Their purpose is to help parents better understand their child’s experience so decisions can be made with greater insight and care.
Where provided as part of the Family Dispute Resolution process, these consultations may attract confidentiality protections under the Family Law Act, subject to relevant legal exceptions.
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Offers clarity on how separation or conflict may be affecting each child.
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Provides practical language and strategies to respond with empathy.
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Helps parents make confident, informed decisions together.
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Creates a shared sense of purpose focused on protecting what matters most.
How it Supports Parents
Benefits of
Child-Inclusive Mediation
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A calm, sensory-safe environment designed for trust and expression.
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Play-based methods using quality materials and toys, rather than interviews or tests.
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Insights shared with parents that honour the child’s perspective and privacy.
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A process focused on understanding, repair, and emotional wellbeing rather than blame.
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Children often feel heard, seen, and emotionally validated.
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Parents can gain genuine insight into their child’s needs and worries.
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Decisions often become more child-focused and less conflict-driven.
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Can support the restoration of safety and connection within the family system.
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May reduce long-term stress and improve co-parenting cooperation.