Welcome Parent
How a Parenting Coordinator can help you?
Parenting Coordination is a child centred process for conflicted divorced and divorcing parents. It is a dispute resolution technique to help parents organise their ongoing parenting arrangements before, during and after they have reached their final Court Orders. Through education, mediation and case management, the family’s post-separation progress is monitored to help parents ensure the best possible outcomes for their children.
Meet our Parenting Coordinators
Meet your Parenting Coordinators
Dr. Anne Purcell
Brisbane, Online
Brisbane, Online
Founder & Coordinator, Mediator, Family Dispute Resolution Practitioner (FDRP)
07 3113 3700resolutionpartners.com.auMake BookingDr. Anne Purcell
Anne Purcell is a dispute resolution specialist focusing on the psychology of interpersonal communication and conflict. She practices as a mediator, family dispute resolution practitioner (FDRP), communication and family professional in the collaborative law process, a parenting co-ordinator and as an international speaker and trainer.
Dr Purcell holds a PhD in Developmental Psycholinguistics and a Masters of Education, Human Development and Psychology. She did her graduate studies at Harvard University in the US and The University of Queensland in Australia. Anne’s main areas of expertise are educational psychology, communication patterns, the neuroscience of conflict, and parenting styles and their impact on child development.
Anne has worked with more than a thousand families experiencing divorce, separation and family transition. She has a particular interest in high-conflict matters and non-traditional or alternative family structures. In addition, she works on estate or succession disputes, and intergenerational family conflict.
She also assists companies and corporations to reduce workplace conflict and increase productivity.
Anne has trained professionals around the world in alternatives to traditional dispute resolution and litigation processes. Her focus is on healthy children after divorce, and on-going respectful relationships between separated couples, families and colleagues.
Courses, Qualifications & Experience:
- Mediation Certificate - Bond University
- Family Dispute Resolution Practitioner Certificate - Relationships Australia
- Vocational Graduate Diploma in Family Dispute Resolution Attorney-General’s Department
- Collaborative Law Training - QLD Collaborative Law and IACP
- Postgraduate - Harvard University, MA, USA and The University of Queensland, Australia
- Undergraduate - The University of Queensland, Australia
Cassandra Pullos
Brisbane, Gold Coast, Online
Brisbane, Gold Coast, Online
Founder & Coordinator, Family Lawyer, Mediator
0755263646pulloslawyers.com.auMake BookingCassandra Pullos
With over 30 years of legal experience, Cassandra knows that not all conflict can be resolved in court. Specializing in alternate dispute resolution techniques, Cassandra guides clients towards self-determined, durable and positive outcomes whilst avoiding the stress and cost that litigation places on both parents & children.
Parenting Coordination Australia is an extension of Cassandra’s vision of
protecting children from the damage associated with divorce or separation.
Through her Parenting Coordination practice, Cassandra promotes positive relationships between parents and children throughout divorce or separation. Cassandra will help clients meet their commitments and court-ordered agreements whilst minimizing conflict and stress.
Courses, Qualifications & Experience:
- Bachelor of Laws (QUT) 1985
- Accredited Family Law Specialist (1996)
- Nationally Accredited Mediator
- Collaborative Lawyer and Trainer
- Nationally Accredited Arbitrator
- Parenting Coordinator
Angela Cowan
Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane, Gold Coast
Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane, Gold Coast
Family Dispute Resolution Practitioner (FDRP)
(03) 9110 3027 or 0447264352www.mediatorhub.comMake BookingAngela Cowan
Angela is an accredited Mediator, registered Family Dispute Resolution Practitioner and trained Parenting Co-ordinator at Mediator Hub. Whilst she is admitted as a lawyer and trained in family law, she prefers to practise solely as an Alternative Dispute Resolution specialist and is appointed as a mediator at Tribunals and Commissions in Queensland and Victoria.
Angela has successfully completed a Master of Laws (Applied Law) majoring in Family Dispute Resolution Practice and is one of only a limited number of practitioners who have successfully completed this highly regarded legal qualification.
Prior to her admission as a lawyer, Angela excelled as an adult learning specialist as director of a registered training organisation, delivering nationally recognised qualifications to school age and adult students.
Angela has over 23 years experience as a co-parent and understands the challenges this presents. Angela is a skilled practitioner who provides a stabilising presence for parties who find themselves in highly emotive and complex disputes with others. Angela empowers parties to negotiate pragmatic solutions that focus on the future to reduce the reliance on court proceedings.
Courses, Qualifications & Experience:
- Master of Laws (Applied Law) Major in Family Dispute Resolution Practice
- Post Graduate Diploma Legal Practice
- Bachelor of Laws
- Certificate IV - Training and Assessment
Avril Cowarn
Brisbane, Hobart
Brisbane, Hobart
Family Lawyer, Mediator, Family Dispute Resolution Practitioner (FDRP)
0412 129 757acfam.solutionsMake BookingAvril Cowarn
Avril Cowarn is the founder and Principal of AC FAM Solutions, a family dispute resolution service that offers tailored solutions to families going through separation and divorce. She has been an educator for 30 years and a family lawyer for 20 years. This blend of experience allows Avril to be creative in problem solving, and encouraging of parents to work together to create the best opportunity for children to feel safe, heard and cared for when transitioning from a coupled family unit to a co-parenting unit.
Avril focuses on building confident communication strategies between parents. She is compassionate and alert to the pressures, stresses and traumas of separation and divorce having been through her own separation with young children. She now has two adult children in the Australian Defence Force and brings insights into the difficulties parents face in separating and divorcing with children in the Military.
Avril has worked with Indigenous and Torres Strait Islander families in the NT, Qld, Victoria, and Tasmania and focuses on removing barriers and accessing support and solutions that are culturally appropriate.
Avril is passionate to provide parents with the opportunity to learn collaborative, kind and respectful co-parenting skills in a bid to reduce high conflict parenting. Avril works hard to work with all parties to work out solutions and pathways that are best for the family circumstances.
Courses, Qualifications & Experience:
- Collaborative Lawyer & Coach
- Masters of Family Law
- Attorney General Registered FDRP
- NMAS registered Mediator
- Graduate Diploma of Family Dispute Resolution
- Bachelor of Laws
- Bachelor of Education
- Diploma of Teaching
Rebecca Francis
Penrith, NSW
Rebecca Francis
Rebecca is a collaboratively trained family lawyer and parenting coordinator. Her goal is to assist parents to find a practical resolution to their disputes that allows all members of the family to move forward with peace and clarity.
Courses, Qualifications & Experience:
- Family Lawyer
- Parenting Coordinator
- Bachelor of Laws
- Bachelor of Psychological Science
Bron O'Loan
Sydney
Bron O'Loan
Bron O’Loan is a passionate family lawyer, practising in Sydney, Australia as the Director of O’Loan Family Law. With an enthusiasm for helping people, Bron’s core focus is to guide parents to get through the splits with their family relationships to ensure the kids are okay.
Bron wasn’t always a family lawyer. In fact, upon leaving school, Bron loved the experience so much she became a primary school teacher. Since then, she has travelled around Australia and the world as a product manager and trainer for a large IT firm, was the author of a Masters’ Degree program for teachers, was a lecturer at Charles Sturt University, and is now a best selling author of ‘The Splits – how to help your kids navigate separation and divorce.’
Bron is a trained Parenting co-ordinator and a Collaborative Practitioner.
Bron advocates for amicable and peaceful resolutions and for the children’s voices to be heard during the coordination of ongoing parenting arrangements.
Courses, Qualifications & Experience:
- Diploma of Law (LPAB)
- Graduate Diploma of Legal Practice
- Master of Applied Law (Family Law)
- Bachelor of Education
- Collaborative Practitioner
- Legal Aid Panel - Independent Children's Lawyer
- Member of Law Society of NSW
- Member of the Family Law Section
- Member of the Women Lawyers' Association of NSW
- Member of Australian Association of Collaborative Professionals
Catherine Joseph
Online, Australia wide
Online, Australia wide
Family Dispute Resolution Practitioner (FDRP)
(040) 142 3622Parenting Coordination SolutionsMake BookingCatherine Joseph
Don’t let your separation ruin the lives of you and your children.
I specialise in post-separation parenting coordination that creates better outcomes for everyone.
Working with you and your coparent, we’ll set respectful and effective communication protocols, implement plans / Orders and improve coparenting capacity.
I provide case management, mediation and reportable, ongoing support to reduce stress, so your children can thrive.
Courses, Qualifications & Experience:
- Parenting Coordinator
- Family Dispute Resolution Practitioner
- NMAS Mediator
- LLB
- BA Communications
Clare Jobson
Brisbane, Darwin, Adelaide, Canberra, Online
Clare Jobson
Clare Jobson, Principal Solicitor of CJ Legal, which opened in Adelaide in 2015, now based in Brisbane.
Clare is a Lawyer and Collaborative professional, having completed both the Independent Childrens Lawyer and Parenting Coordinator specialised training. In combination with her 24+ years of nursing and other experience brings a unique perspective to her practice.
As a Defence spouse, Clare has a special interest in assisting Defence families with all the unique associated challenges that military life brings. Clare’s legal career includes employment with the Department of Justice in the Northern Territory; and for Public Trustee in South Australian; in Private Practice; and in the Community Legal Sector.
A passion for social justice means Clare has worked as a volunteer solicitor for various Community Legal Services, in every state she has lived in. Clare is currently a volunteer solicitor at Women’s Legal Service in QLD.
Clare has appeared on the Happy Lawyer Happy Life (episode 121) and the Military Wife Military Life (episode 49) Podcasts and in Lawyers Weekly publications from 2018 to date.
Clare joined Balance family Law based in Canberra as a consultant in June 2020.
Clare’s superpower is empathy, she is passionate about ensuring her client’s have all the information that they need to make informed choices about their future and the future of their families. Clare’s specialty is assisting you to overcome your unique obstacles and to assist you to implement child focussed outcomes.
Courses, Qualifications & Experience:
- Parenting Coordination Australia 2021
- Advanced Collaborative Training with Clarissa Rayward 2019
- Independent Children's Lawyer - Law Council of Australia and National Legal Aid 2015
- Admitted to the Supreme Court of South Australia 2013
- GDLP Australian National University & Charles Darwin University 2008
Clare Jennings
Adelaide, Online
Clare Jennings
Clare has been a lawyer, specalising in Family law for over 12 years, more recently Clare has upskilled to assist separating families to resolve their disputes through dispute resolution practices such as arbitration, parenting coordination and is currently studying to become a Family Dispute Resolution Provider.
Courses, Qualifications & Experience:
Denise Giles
Gold Coast, Cairns, Melbourne, Online
Denise Giles
Denise has a background in nursing and psychology.
She spent approximately 10 years working in child protection jurisdictions in Queensland and the ACT before becoming an independent Family Report writer and Social Assessor in 2013.
Denise's focus is on providing quality positive outcomes for children and their families. She is passionate about parents resolving their issues in a collaborative process and understands parents dealing with high conflict and the stress this can have on parenting and children. She is also a Director of Scope Family Centre in Nerang which is open for family contact and has professionals from different fields working together to assist families and children. Denise is also a trained facilitator of the reflective parenting course Bringing Up Great Kids, a Child Inclusive Mediator and a Parenting Coordinator trained to the AFCC Guidelines.
Courses, Qualifications & Experience:
- Bachelor of Science majoring in Psychology
- Parenting Coordination Australia Course Graduate
- Parenting Coordination Australia Course Graduate
Elizabeth Reardon
New South Wales, Canberra
New South Wales, Canberra
Family Lawyer, Family Dispute Resolution Practitioner (FDRP)
02 6110 2030thesettlementcentre.com.auMake BookingElizabeth Reardon
Elizabeth is a trained collaborative family lawyer, parenting coordinator and family dispute resolution practitioner practising in Canberra and surrounding NSW. Elizabeth is a creative problem solver who focuses her legal practice on non-adversarial dispute resolution and settlement.
Her objective is to assist families to take a solution focused approach to separation and post separation parenting which avoids escalation of conflict, protects their ability to make their own choices and assists families to move more quickly into new, settled lives.
Courses, Qualifications & Experience:
- Juris Doctor (Honours)
- Bachelor of Business (Finance)
- Graduate Diploma of Legal Practice
- Family Dispute Resolution Practitioner
- Collaborative Practitioner
- Law Council of Australia - Family Law Section
- ACT Law Society
- ACT Law Society Family Violence and Children's Committee
- Family Law Pathways Network - ACT & Region
- Australian Association of Collaborative Professionals
- Collaborative Professionals NSW
- Canberra Collaborative Family Lawyers
- Mediation Institute
Hayley Cunningham
Brisbane, Sunshine Coast
Brisbane, Sunshine Coast
Family Lawyer, Mediator, Family Dispute Resolution Practitioner (FDRP)
07 3062 6772www.familylawgroup.com.auMake BookingHayley Cunningham
Hayley is an Accredited Specialist in Family Law, legal practitioner director, and solicitor in charge of Family Law Group Solicitors. She was admitted to practice in 2003, and holds a Bachelor of Laws and a Bachelor of Science from Griffith University. She started her own practice as a sole practitioner in 2005 as Hayley Ritchie Solicitors.
Hayley is a trained Parenting co-ordinator, Collaborative Practitioner, National Accredited Mediator/Family Dispute Resolution Practitioner, and a member of Queensland Collaborative Law. She is also a member of the Family Law Practitioner’s Association. Hayley has practiced exclusively in family law since 2006, having previously been in general practice with a family law focus.
Hayley’s passion is collaborative practice and co-operative negotiation. Hayley also undertakes matters in the role of Independent Children’s Lawyer where the Court appoints a lawyer to represent the interests of children.
Courses, Qualifications & Experience:
- Bachelor of Laws
- Bachelor of Science
- Collaborative Practitioner
- National Accredited Mediator
- Family Dispute Resolution Practitioner
- Family Law Practitioner's Association
- Accredited Specialist in Family Law
- Legal Practitioner Director and Solicitor managing Family Law Group Solicitors
Jane Libbis
Melbourne
Jane Libbis
Jane is a partner at Umbrella Family Law and Umbrella Family Support where they work with family law clients to help them start their new lives with dignity and respect.
As a long-time step-parent, Jane personally understands the twists and turns of the post-separation journey and has watched children adapting to new arrangements.
In addition to her Law and Arts degrees, Jane has a Graduate Diploma in Counselling and enjoys working empathically with her clients.
Courses, Qualifications & Experience:
- Bachelor of Laws
- Bachelor of Arts
- Graduate Diploma of Social Science (Human Services - Counselling)
- Collaborative Lawyer
Jasmin Newman
Sydney
Jasmin Newman
Jasmin Newman is an accredited and registered Family Dispute Resolution Practitioner, Parenting Coordinator and Director of the Parenting After Separation Online Course.
After many years of providing support for separated parents with suicidal ideation, Jasmin became a passionate advocate for a less adversarial process. She is dedicated to helping parents resolve their parenting matters to minimise conflict and subsequent impact on their children. And so that each of the parents can move on with their lives in a more positive mindset.
Jasmin quickly builds a strong rapport with her students and clients. She has a compassionate, practical and pragmatic approach which is welcomed by those parents who are overwhelmed with their disputes and haven’t been able to find a way to resolve them.
Courses, Qualifications & Experience:
- Registered Family Dispute Resolution Practitioner (FDRP)
- Registered and Accredited Mediator (NMAS)
- Certified MindMAP Coach (cognitive and behavioural neuroscience)
- Accredited Trainer and Assessor
- Accredited Trainer and Assessor
Jennifer Hetherington
Brisbane
Brisbane
Family Lawyer, Mediator, Family Dispute Resolution Practitioner (FDRP)
1300 737 272divorcehub.com.auMake BookingJennifer Hetherington
Jennifer Hetherington is an Accredited Family Law Specialist, a Registered Family Dispute Resolution Practitioner, Mediator, Collaborative Divorce Lawyer and Parenting Coordinator.
Jennifer believes that ‘Conflict is not Inevitable’ and that every child should have the opportunity of seeing their parents dance together at their wedding. She has worked with many families over her more than 20 year career, helping them transition towards a more positive post separation parenting relationship, despite the challenges that they may present with initially.
Jennifer is a strategic problem solver who believes that parental conflict is a problem that requires the development of a solution rather than being an insurmountable hurdle and that Parenting Coordination is an essential tool in helping parents find those solutions.
Courses, Qualifications & Experience:
- Accredited Family Law Specialist
- Registered Family Dispute Resolution Practitioner
- Accredited Mediator
- Collaborative Lawyer
Judith Jordan
Adelaide
Judith Jordan
Judith has over 20 years’ experience working with families as a solicitor. Her focus is to work with parents to establish a co-parenting team to help them get it right for their children as they transition between households and support them as they do. Judith knows from her own blended family the challenges that parents face and how daunting it can be especially if litigation has or is involved.
Courses, Qualifications & Experience:
- Family Law Barrister and Solicitor
- Collaborative Lawyer
- Nationally Accredited Mediator
Kelly Stanford
Sydney
Sydney
Family Lawyer, Mediator, Family Dispute Resolution Practitioner (FDRP)
1300 444 529stanfords.com.auMake BookingKelly Stanford
I love talking to people. I enjoy helping my clients find a solution to their legal problems so when the opportunity came up to train as a Parenting Co-Ordinator I jumped at it. There is a huge need for parents to engage with each other after separation and sometimes they need help doing that.
I have been really fortunate over the years to have a successful career as a both a collaborative family lawyer and family law mediator (FDRP). The benefit to my Parenting Co-Ordination Clients is that my years of experience as a Family Lawyer representing parents or children as an independent children’s lawyer, a Family Law Mediator and a Family Law Arbitrator means that there isn’t many disputes that I haven’t come across before. I am well versed in helping people identify their issues, work through their issues and moving forward with a new normal that feels like something they can live with.
My aim is to help those parents who have separated to learn to work together, for their own sanity and the benefit of their children, because, you are going to be the parents of these children, and the grandparents to their children from now until the day you die. So let's get started today working out how you will work through this new gig as separated parents together.
My main office is physically based in Camden in New South Wales, however, I have offices in both Moruya and Bega on the South Coast of NSW. I also meet with clients via Facetime, Whatsapp, Zoom, Google Duo or Teams.
Courses, Qualifications & Experience:
- Parenting Coordinator
- Mediator (NMAS)
- FDRP
- Family Group Conference Organiser
- Arbitrator
- Lawyer
Kerry Letheby
Mt Gambier & South Australia
Kerry Letheby
As a retired teacher (English and language), in conjunction with 8 years experience in the mental health sector as case manager and educator, I thrive in my current role which brings these two fields together – that of Case Manager for nine years in the Post Separation Cooperative Parenting program.
The key focus of my work is to educate and prepare separated parents for mediation, and often the bitterness and hostility between parents can sabotage their negotiations. Without education and support, mediation can end up being all about ‘getting back at one another’ and losing sight of the needs of the primary victims of their ongoing conflict – their children and what might be in their best interests. I am passionate about helping parents to improve their communication, and also to explore and understand the nature of conflict – what triggers it and how to better manage it with appropriate conflict resolution strategies. A key emphasis of my work is teaching parents how to emotionally support their children through the challenge of separation, and helping them to understand what it truly means to be child focused when looking at potential care arrangements.
Courses, Qualifications & Experience:
- Case Manager in Post Separation Cooperative Parenting (2012 – 2021)
- Retired teacher (primary & secondary English) 1979 - 2010
- Parenting Coordinator (Parenting Coordination Australia)
- Managing High Conflict Personalities (Megan Hunter) 2016
Larissa Goldberg
Melbourne, Victoria
Larissa Goldberg
Larissa is the director of Goldberg Family Law Mediation and a co-founder of The FDR Collective.
In 1991, Larissa commenced her legal career and, since 2004, has worked exclusively in family law.
Larissa understands the complexity of parenting matters and working with high conflict individuals and families.
Drawing upon her interdisciplinary qualifications, experience and skills, Larissa takes a problem-solving and child-focused approach. Parent education, including child development, communications and conflict resolution, is essential for future problem-prevention and harm minimisation. The more functional the co-parenting relationship can become, the better the long-term outcomes can be for children.
A keen educator, Larissa is an adjunct lecturer at the College of Law. She also delivers presentations about family dispute resolution.
Courses, Qualifications & Experience:
- Bachelor of Arts (Sociology), Bachelor of Laws, and Master of Laws (Monash)
- Family Dispute Resolution Practitioner
- Nationally Accredited Mediator
- Recommended Family Law Mediator (Doyle's 2020, 2021 & 2022)
Mary Louise Hatch
Melbourne
Melbourne
Family Lawyer, Mediator, Family Dispute Resolution Practitioner (FDRP)
03 9817 3480spectrumlaw.com.auMake BookingMary Louise Hatch
Mary Louise works with families to help children and parents have safe, positive relationships.
Mary Louise is a Collaborative Family Lawyer, Nationally Accredited Mediator, Family Dispute Resolution Practitioner and Parenting Coordinator.
Mary Louise has been admitted to practice as a Legal Practitioner since 1991 and has worked almost exclusively in Family Law. In 2008, Mary Louise completed Mediation and Family Dispute Resolution training before commencing an internship as a Family Dispute Resolution Practitioner with Relationships Australia. In 2019, Mary Louise was one of the first in Australia to undertake further training to qualify as a Parenting Coordinator.
Mary Louise holds a Master of Laws Degree in Applied Family Law and lectures and coaches in mediation and dispute resolution to organisations such as Resolution Institute, Relationships Australia, College of Law and in RMIT’s Juris Doctor Program. Mary Louise has been awarded PhD equivalence in Law at RMIT where she lectures in Family Law. Mary Louise also lectures at the College of Law in its Professional Legal Training program.
Courses, Qualifications & Experience:
- Master of Laws in Applied Family Law
- Coaches Mediation and Dispute Resolution
- Awarded PhD Equivalence in Law at RMIT
- Nationally Accredited Mediator
- Family Dispute Resolution Practitioner
Maryanne Atalla
Sydney
Maryanne Atalla
Courses, Qualifications & Experience:
- Bachelor of Laws Degree
- Diploma of Legal Practice
- Certificate of Parenting Coordination
- Legal Aid Panel - Family Law
- Member of the Family Law Section of the Law Council of Australia
Pierce Carstensen
Brisbane
Pierce Carstensen
Pierce is a Principal at McInnes Wilson Lawyers and is the head of the family law team.
Pierce takes a no-nonsense approach to assisting parties reach their specific goals. He is particularly interested in resolving issues that other solicitors find too difficult. Pierce prides himself on communicating complex legal solutions using frank and simple language, and giving the advice that clients need to hear.
Pierce’s communication, negotiation and problem solving skills set him apart from other lawyers within the industry.
Courses, Qualifications & Experience:
- Bachelor of Law/Bachelor of Commerce, Griffith University
- Graduate Diploma in Legal Practice, College of Law, Queensland
- Solicitor of the Supreme Court of Queensland
- Solicitor of the High Court of Australia
- Member of Family Law Practitioners Association
Rachael Murray
Brisbane
Rachael Murray
As an experienced lawyer Rachael understands that co-parenting following the breakdown of a relationship isn’t easy, particularly when parties have been through Court proceedings. Trust is at an all-time low, and parties are used to an environment of evidence building, record keeping and point scoring.
Even once final parenting orders are made, it is difficult to transition away from a litigation mindset and move forward in a positive way. We know that parental conflict leads to poorer outcomes for children in almost all areas of their life including their ability to develop meaningful relationships, achieve their educational goals and effectively manage their mental health. Yet many parents are not equipped with the skills necessary to make the move from an intimate relationship with their former partner to a co-parenting relationship. Rachael works with parents to help them make this transition, and to develop insight about the impact of their conduct on their children. No one sets out to be a bad parent, or to let their children down.
Rachael arms parents with the tools they need to make positive and constructive contributions to their child’s development. Rachael’s parenting coordination practice has a specific focus that includes high conflict matters, drug and alcohol abuse, family violence, international parenting disputes, mental health issues and children with special needs. Rachael has a particular interest and expertise in matters involving autism/Asperger’s and other spectrumal disorders.
Courses, Qualifications & Experience:
- Lawyer and collaborative professional
- LLB (Hons) BCom (Politics)
- Member of Family Law Practitioners Association, Queensland Association of Collaborative
- Professionals, Association of Family and Conciliation Courts and Parenting Coordination Australia
Dr Raileen Merlino
Perth
Dr Raileen Merlino
With over 17 years’ experience in the practice of psychology, Raileen Merlino has proudly helped hundreds of clients of all races, genders and ages.
She has experience being a Single Expert Witness, writing reports for family and children’s court, and is familiar with court orders.
Her background in therapy means she is passionate about bringing a holistic and caring approach to Parent Coordination, helping to facilitate court orders and Parenting Plans with compassion, respect, empathy and positivity.
She works on the premise that children, parents, guardians and anyone else involved has the right to experience amicable resolutions; feeling safe, fulfilled, heard and happy in the process. As a Parent Coordinator, she is proud to assist each person on their own unique journey.
Being actively involved in professional development, she’s affiliated with Australia and New Zealand Professional Association for Transgender Health (ANZPATH), Australian and New Zealand Association of Psychiatry, Psychology and Law (ANZAPPL), Association of Family and Conciliation Courts (AFCC), Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA), and Australian Psychological Society (APS).
Courses, Qualifications & Experience:
- Doctorate of Psychology (Clinical Psychology) (DPsych)
- Master of Psychology (Clinical) Equivalent
- Bachelor of Psychology
- Bachelor of Legal Studies (Family Law and Dispute Resolution)
- Family Dispute Resolution Practitioner
- Parenting Coordinator
Robert Seare
Brisbane, Online
Robert Seare
Robert is a professionally accredited Counselor and coach and operates a mobile private counseling practice called Moving Conversations. He brings a unique perspective and skillset to elicit the power of hope to assist families in navigating the challenges posed by divorce and separation. His approach is collaborative, person-centered, and solution-focused.
He holds a Bachelor's degree in Psychology and a Master's degree in Counseling Psychology and is an active member of the Australian Counseling Association and the Australasian Solution Focused Association. Robert also brings over six years of experience in life coaching and ten years of experience successfully supporting individuals and families living with severe psychosis.
Robert's approach invites parents to redirect their focus away from conflict with each other and draws on their shared commitment to the happiness and well-being of their children to co-create pragmatic process-driven solutions. Robert is ever hopeful and committed to families transcending, transforming, and thriving post-separation.
Courses, Qualifications & Experience:
- Undergraduate: Bachelor of Arts (Psychology), University of Queensland
- Post graduate: Masters of Counseling Psychology, Queensland University of Technology
- Parenting Coordinator accreditation, Parenting Coordination Australia
- Australian Counseling Association
- Australasian Solution Focused Association
Sarah Reid
Coffs Harbour, Online
Sarah Reid
Sarah has been the Principal at Reid Legal since its inception in February 2018. She holds a Bachelor of Law, and Graduate Diploma in Legal Practice from the University of Western Sydney and a Masters of Applied Law (Family Law) from the College of Law. Sarah is also trained in and enthusiastic about collaborative law and is on the founding executive of the Macarthur Collaborative Law Group.
Sarah will complete her training to become a Nationally Accredited Family Dispute Resolution Practitioner this year.
Since her admission to practice in 2004 Sarah has cultivated extensive experience in family law, care and protection, conveyancing and wills and estates. She has held positions in government departments, a community legal centre, and private practice culminating in over eighteen years of experience.
Sarah is a committed and passionate advocate for the people of her local area as she has grown up, studied, and practiced law in the Macarthur region. She was the President of the Macarthur Law Society from 2018 to 2021, was the Treasurer for the Macarthur Collaborative Law Group from 2019 to 2021, a committee member and Major Sponsor for the Campbelltown Thunder Netball Club from 2019 to 2021 and sits on the panel of lawyers for the Department of Communities and Justice as well as the Legal Aid panel in Family Law and Care and Protection.
Courses, Qualifications & Experience:
- Bachelor of Law
- Graduate Diploma in Legal Practice
- Masters of Applied Law (Family Law)
- Collaborative Solicitor
- Parenting Coordinator
Sarah Cleeland
Brisbane, Gold Coast, Sunshine Coast, Online
Brisbane, Gold Coast, Sunshine Coast, Online
Family Lawyer, Mediator, Family Dispute Resolution Practitioner (FDRP), Independent Children's Lawyer
07 3269 9938scfamilylawyers.com.auMake BookingSarah Cleeland
Sarah Cleeland is a highly experienced and well respected Family Lawyer, Nationally Accredited Mediator, Family Dispute Resolution Practitioner, and Independent Children’s Lawyer. Sarah has over 25 years’ experience practising in Family Law and is the Principal of the Family Law Firm, Sarah Cleeland Family Lawyers. Sarah is also the Founder and Principal of the Mediation practice Sarah Cleeland Mediations. Sarah offers services as a mediator of family law disputes in property settlements, complex property settlements, child support disputes and parenting disputes. Sarah continues to practice as an Independent Children’s Lawyer representing the interests of children both in the Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia and in the child protection system. Sarah has completed the National Parenting Coordination Training and is now extending her practice to offer services to parents as a Parenting Coordinator.
Courses, Qualifications & Experience:
- Bachelor of Laws (Honours) (1996)
- Bachelor of Commerce (1996)
- Nationally Accredited Mediator (2003)
- Appointment as an Independent Childrens Lawyer (2003)
- Family Dispute Resolution Practitioner
- Collaboratively Trained Practitioner
- Parenting Coordinator
- Collaboratively Trained Practitioner
- Principal Practicing Certificate (2010)
- Parenting Coordination Certificate 2021
Shanna Quinn
Brisbane, Hong Kong
Brisbane, Hong Kong
Social Worker, Family Lawyer, Mediator, Family Dispute Resolution Practitioner (FDRP)
+61 (0)413 581 598www.shannaquinn.com.auMake BookingShanna Quinn
Shanna has experience across Australia and Hong Kong, specialising in family and relationship law and mediation. Shanna has a multi-disciplinary background as a forensic social scientist, counsellor and barrister and has worked with clients from diverse cultural, socio-economic and religious backgrounds. Her unique multidisciplinary background allows her to have a comprehensive perspective, equipping her to deal with sensitive and complex matters.
Courses, Qualifications & Experience:
- Bachelor of Laws (Hons)
- Post Graduate Diploma in Legal Practice
- Bachelor of Social Work
- Master of Social Work
- Graduate Diploma in Family Dispute Resolution
- Registered Family Dispute Resolution Practitioner, Australia
- Nationally Accredited Mediator, Australia
- Accredited Family & General Mediator and Supervisor, Hong Kong
- Accredited Arbitrator, Australia
- Trained Parenting Coordinator, Association of Family Courts and Conciliation (AFCC) compliant
Sophie Russell
Melbourne, Victoria
Sophie Russell
Sophie Russell has over 20 years’ experience working with children, adults, couples and families as a registered psychologist. She is an accredited and registered Family Dispute Resolution Practitioner, a nationally accredited mediator and a Parenting Coordinator.
Sophie brings empathy, compassion, respect for all clients to her work with separating parents. With always a focus on best interest of the children, managing and minimising conflicts in families, problem-solving, promoting effective communication, parental education on the impact of conflicts on children’s development and wellbeing are amongst the goals of Sophie’s approach. She believes that her work with clients makes a positive difference in families now and for the future, where a peaceful and amicable relationship between parents that work together ensures children feel loved, heard and safe.
Courses, Qualifications & Experience:
- Graduate Diploma of Family Dispute Resolution
- Registered Psychologist (APS, AHPRA)
- NMAS registered mediator
- Child Inclusive practice
- Smart recovery facilitator / Addiction specialist
Stephanie Azzi
Online, Sydney
Online, Sydney
Family Lawyer, Mediator
(02) 4578 5611www.rafton.com.au/team/stephanie-azziMake BookingStephanie Azzi
Stephanie has completed a Bachelor of Law at the University of Wollongong, holds a Graduate Diploma of Legal Practice and a Bachelor of Commerce majoring in Human Resource management. Stephanie has been working exclusively in the area of family law since 2017.
In November 2019, Stephanie completed her Masters of Applied Law (Family Law) and completed her Masters of Applied Law (majoring in Family Dispute Resolution Practice) in November 2021.
Stephanie is also a NMAS Nationally Accredited Mediator, has also completed her specialists training to become a qualified Collaborative Lawyer and is also a Parenting Coordinator.
Stephanie was named a finalist in the Rising Star of the Year awards for Women Lawyers in 2021.
Stephanie is a skilled negotiator and regularly settles family law matters without the need for clients to proceed to Court. Stephanie recognises that dealing with separation is a stressful time for clients and her empathetic approach puts clients at ease.
Courses, Qualifications & Experience:
- Bachelor of Laws
- Bachelor of Commerce (majored in Human Resource management)
- Graduate Diploma of Legal Practice (PLT)
- Certificate of Legal Business Skills from the College of Law
- Masters in Applied Law (Family Law) & (majoring in Family Dispute Resolution Practice)
Sue Adams
Melbourne
Sue Adams
Sue is a registered psychologist with over 2o years of experience in working with high conflict separated families. She also has a particular interest in trauma and has a post-graduate Certificate in Developmental Trauma. She is also interested in working with families where there are resistance/refusal dynamics.
Sue worked for six years as a Family Consultant with the Family Court, both in Melbourne and in Townsville. She now has a private practice, Prosper Psychology, in which she undertakes family assessments, works therapeutically with separated parents and children, and most recently, developed a therapeutic contact program. Sue’s previous experience includes working in Children’s Contact Services, the Parenting Orders Program and the development of group programs for children from separated families.
Sue is passionate about workable outcomes for separated families, with a focus on the best interests of the children. She is aware of the challenges faced by parents and children when navigating the process of separation and is eager to assist parents in Parenting Coordination to build a healthy co-parenting alliance for the benefit of their children.
Courses, Qualifications & Experience:
- Bachelor of Art, Hons (Psychology), Deakin University 1998
- Post-graduate Certificate in Developmental Trauma, Australian Childhood Foundation, 2014
- Certificate: High Conflict Coparenting: Interventions for Children's Alignment and Resistance 2019-2020, William James College, USA.
Josephine Byrnes-Luna
Sydney Camden Online - Australia Wide
Sydney Camden Online - Australia Wide
Family Dispute Resolution Practitioners (FDRPs)
(049) 314 2622https://www.achieving-solutions.com.au/Make BookingJosephine Byrnes-Luna
Josephine is the owner of Achieving Solutions Counselling and Mediation Services, and has been working in the counselling and therapeutic space, particularly with relationships, children, parenting and families; since the inception of the practice, 2007.
After completing collaborative law training in the family law jurisdiction, becoming a nationally accredited mediator then Family Dispute Resolution (FDR) practitioner she was beginning to work more in the family law space, and working towards resolutions particularly with parenting plans, parenting arrangements and family therapy referrals from the Court.
With these years of therapeutic experience combined with collaborative practice, nationally accredited mediator, FDR and now Parenting Co-ordination (PC), Josephine is in a perhaps unique position to offer a holistic, balanced and integrated approach to PC, brining many aspects of the process, and what she believes is necessary, for successful parental conflict and working towards positive and future focussed resolutions, in the best interests of the family dynamic.
Josephine is located in Camden and periodically in the Sydney CBD by appointment only. She also conducts many of her consultations online, so can be available Australia wide.
Courses, Qualifications & Experience:
- Family Dispute Resolution Practitioner
- Counselling and Family Therapy
- Parenting Co-ordination
- Children Beyond Dispute - Professor Jen McIntosh
- Nationally Accredited Mediator
- Collaborative Law in the Family Law jurisdiction
Susan Warda
Sydney
Susan Warda
Susan Warda specialises in helping separated parents to overcome conflict and develop the skills they need to effectively manage their shared parenting responsibilities. Highly regarded for her compassionate, discreet and understanding approach, Susan’s 30 years of experience as a family lawyer along with her personal understanding of being part of a blended family, ensure she is well equipped to work with parents to reach agreement on a wide variety of issues. Aware of the potential impact that conflict between parents can have on children, Susan is passionate about working with families to re-build trust, encourage cooperation and effectively resolve issues surrounding parenting plans, shared custody, child safety and international parenting disputes. Her experience in alternative dispute resolution and mediation plays a vital role in helping parents to resolve complex disputes outside of the Court system. Susan also has experience managing high conflict disputes involving mental health disorders where she has implemented strategies to reduce conflict and negotiate agreement. She has also acted as a Court-appointed independent children’s lawyer, giving them a voice in proceedings whilst striving for the best possible outcome.
Courses, Qualifications & Experience:
- Accredited Specialist Family Lawyer
- Collaborative Family Lawyer
- Parenting Coordinator
- Member International Academy of Family Lawyers
- Board Member, Australian Association of Collaborative Professionals
- Member, NSW Law Society
Trevor Jolly
Melbourne
Melbourne
Family Lawyer, Mediator, Family Dispute Resolution Practitioner (FDRP)
jolimanlawyers.com.auMake BookingTrevor Jolly
Trevor specialises in managing, and minimising, conflict in families through alternate dispute resolution techniques and effective communication strategies. He guides parents in setting new boundaries for post-relationship dynamics and new norms resulting in positive outcomes. Trevor prides himself on providing a child-focused or child-centred approach to Family Dispute Resolution, looking at roadblocks preventing parents from being that way inclined. His practice incorporates parental education in appropriate child development factors, core areas of conflict and communication strategies. Trevor is passionate about children’s parental conflict and alienation experience and enjoy assisting people to reach their potential through mediation and coaching. He has been working in the Family Law industry since 2001 and is a member of Resolutions Institute and the Australian Institute of Family Law Arbitrators and Mediators.
Courses, Qualifications & Experience:
- Nationally Accredited Mediator
- Cinergy Conflict Coach
- Registered Family Dispute Resolution Practitioner
- Parenting Coordinator
- Neuro-Linguistic and Neuro-Semantics Master Practitioner
- Neuro-Linguistic and Neuro-Semantics Master Practitioner
- Justice of the Peace
- Fellow of the Institute of Legal Executives
- Child Inclusive Practice
Vanessa Mathews
Melbourne, Northern NSW, Online
Melbourne, Northern NSW, Online
Family Lawyer, Mediator, Family Dispute Resolution Practitioner (FDRP)
1300 635 529mflaw.com.auMake BookingVanessa Mathews
Vanessa Mathews is the founder and managing director of award winning firm Mathews Family Law & Mediation Specialists and Byron Bay Family Law & Mediation Specialists.
She is a fully accredited family law specialist, family dispute resolution practitioner and mediator, and trained parenting coordinator.
Vanessa has the rare combination of social work qualifications and experience, combined with more than 20 years’ experience as a lawyer and mediator; it makes her approach to resolving legal relationship issues both sensible and sensitive. A commerce degree adds a financially astute aspect to her practice.
Vanessa has extensive experience in complex issues that arise from relationship breakdown, and works in partnership with her clients, who regularly describe her as empathetic.
Vanessa provides clients with easy access, regardless of their location, by the use of the best available technology such as web conferencing.
Courses, Qualifications & Experience:
- Bachelor of Law
- Bachelor of Social Work
- Accredited Family Law Specialist
- Accredited Family Dispute Resolution Practitioner
- Accredited Mediator
Yvette Strawbridge
Perth
Perth
Mediator, Family Dispute Resolution Practitioner (FDRP)
0400 041 806perthmediationandcounsellingservices.comMake BookingYvette Strawbridge
Yvette is a diversely qualified and experienced eclectic Health Professional, Accredited Senior Family Dispute Resolution Practitioner, Clinical Member of Resolution Institute, an Accredited NMAS Mediator, Yvette is also trained as a Parenting Coordinator and a Collaborative Professional in Family Law and Wills and Estates. Clinical Member of International Academy of Collaborative Professionals, Registered Clinical Counsellor, Psychotherapist, Credentialed Mental Health Consultant and Advanced Clinical Professional Supervisor/Coach/Mentor, with a diverse range of skills and areas of expertise. Yvette has been working as a Family Dispute Resolution Practitioner and Mediator since May 2009 (13 years). See Perth Mediation and Counselling Services WA web site for more detailed information. In Mediation and as a Parenting Coordinator, Yvette works with couples, parents and corporate clients using her highly effective interpersonal skills engaging with them and facilitating meaningful and sustainable resolutions for the future, often with transformative results. Yvette is in the unique position as an Accredited Family Dispute Resolution Practitioner to also be able to offer Child Inclusive Practice by seeing children as a Child Consultant and as a Parenting Coordinator. Yvette sees children to provide feedback to parents to assist and enable them to consider the needs and best interests of their children.
Courses, Qualifications & Experience:
- Accredited Family Dispute Resolution Practitioner and Mediator
- Child Inclusive Practice Consultant
- Parenting Coordinator
- Interdisciplinary Collaborative Practice Family Professional and Coach
- Interdisciplinary Collaborative Practice Family Professional and Coach
