Role of the Mental Health Professional

Many collaborative law cases utilize a team approach involving a neutral mental health professional as well as the attorneys and any neutral financial professional. The mental health professional (or MHP) can be a licensed professional counselor, marriage and family therapist, psychologist or psychiatrist. In addition to collaborative law training, the MHP typically has extensive experience in family dynamics, relationships, and communications. Within the collaborative process, the MHP serves as a neutral professional and is not there to provide therapy. The MHP’s role is to manage the emotional aspects of your case and, if needed, assist you with making decisions for your family. In addition, the MHP generally helps facilitate communication and guide the process.