From Conflict to Co-Parenting

This chapter examines important dimensions of assessment and intervention with same-sex parent couples who choose to dissolve their relationship during the course of treatment, or seek therapy after having made the decision to end their relationship. Unique aspects of therapy with same-sex separated parent couples are illustrated through case examples, and multicultural dimensions of the therapeutic work are emphasized. Special attention is paid to the impact of various forms of oppression on same-sex parenting couples who are separating in the context of societal homophobia and heterosexism. Recommendations for how to facilitate resiliency with these couples are offered. Specific areas of focus include (1) establishing goals for treatment; (2) determining whether the parents can work together on parenting issues; (3) structuring conjoint therapy or referral to a parenting coordinator with medium- and high-conflict couples; (4) establishing a therapist orientation and position that facilitates progress; and (5) the role of individual therapy.