Collaborative Law
The decision to divorce is a difficult one that often has lasting effects on the entire family. Separation, visitation, parental conflict and custody issues can impact both children and parents alike. The conventional approach to divorce through the court system frequently furthers hostility and resentment between parties and often results in the estrangement of family relationships.

Collaborative law is an innovative alternative to traditional methods of divorce. It gives spouses the opportunity to divorce each other without divorcing their family. The process allows roles and relationships to change and grow rather than come to an end.

The respect, cooperation, and positive communication developed during the collaborative process helps minimize the impact of divorce and offers a new beginning for families.

Communication Specialist
The decision to separate is the first of many emotional issues to be addressed during a divorce. These issues often cloud judgment, interfere with identification of goals and impede productive communication. Left unaddressed, emotional issues can become a hindrance during the collaborative process.

The role of the communication specialist is to assist clients in managing the emotional issues that arise in the divorce process. Identifying and addressing these emotional barriers result in more productive communication between parties, as well as a more constructive resolution of issues.

The communication specialist can be a valuable member of the collaborative team by assisting in the identification of goals and interests, improving effective communication between parties and attorneys, recognition and management of difficult emotions, identification and resolution of conflict, and facilitation of effective participation by all parties during the collaborative process.

Neutral Child Expert
Children are the most valuable asset to parents and often they are the most injured party during the traditional method of divorce. Children need the opportunity to express their feelings about the divorce and work on adjusting to all of the life changes in the family situation, without being caught in the middle of a hostile custody dispute.

The collaborative process treats children with respect as valued individuals to be heard rather than as possessions to be won. The neutral child expert listens to and advocates for children, informs and educates parents about the impact of divorce, and consults about custody and visitation issues. The child expert can assist in keeping the focus on what is in the best interest of the children, identify parenting styles and goals, and develop and implement a parenting plan that provides consistency and support for the children during, as well as after, the divorce.

Counselor Supervision
Dr. Kristi Frye is an approved supervisor by the Texas Board of Examiners of Professional Counselors. Please call the office for internship availability.

Counseling Office Space
The office is conducive to individual, couples and family therapy. It also contains play equipment and materials necessary for individual play therapy sessions with children. For rates and availability please call (214) 616-8185.