At Wholesome Psychology, we recognize that parenting through separation, divorce, or conflict is challenging. Our Parental Custody Assessments are designed to offer objective, compassionate evaluations that prioritize the well-being of your child. Whether mandated by the court or pursued independently, our assessments provide a professional, child-focused lens to support informed custody decisions in Edmonton, St. Albert, and surrounding areas.
What Is a Parental Custody Assessment?
A parental custody assessment is a comprehensive evaluation conducted by a qualified psychologist to understand each parent's ability to meet their child’s emotional, developmental, and psychological needs. These assessments are especially important during high-conflict custody disputes, legal proceedings, or when a neutral third-party perspective is needed to determine what’s in the child’s best interest.
Our assessments consider the parent-child relationship, communication styles, parenting strategies, attachment, safety, and overall family dynamics. We approach each family with compassion, cultural sensitivity, and a trauma-informed lens, aligned with the values expressed in our About page.
Who Needs a Parental Custody Assessment?
There are several reasons why families in Edmonton and St. Albert may seek a custody assessment:
- Ongoing custody disputes: When two parents are in disagreement about custody or access arrangements.
- Court-ordered evaluations: When a judge requests an impartial professional opinion to assist with legal decisions.
- Concerns about parenting capacity: In situations involving suspected neglect, mental health concerns, or unsafe environments.
- Kinship or guardianship applications: To evaluate whether extended family or guardians are suitable caregivers.
- Voluntary self-assessment: When parents wish to understand their parenting strengths and areas of growth for personal development.
Types of Custody Assessments We Offer
1. Practice Note 7 and 8 (PN7 & PN8)
We conduct Practice Note 7 (PN7) and Practice Note 8 (PN8) evaluations in accordance with Alberta family law guidelines. These structured assessments help courts determine the best interests of the child by analyzing parenting capabilities, home environments, and each parent's ability to co-parent effectively. PN7 is typically shorter and more focused, while PN8 involves a more thorough investigation with multiple interviews and collateral information.
2. Structured Assessment Family Evaluation (SAFE)
The SAFE home study is a standardized tool often required for adoption, foster care, kinship care, or private guardianship arrangements. In collaboration with government agencies, we assess the emotional, physical, and relational suitability of the home to ensure the child’s safety and stability.
3. Private Parenting Evaluations
Not all assessments are court-ordered. Many parents seek out evaluations proactively to gain insight into how their mental health, relationship dynamics, and parenting styles impact their children. These private evaluations can help resolve family tensions and improve co-parenting even outside a legal framework.
4. Family Forensic Assessments
When custody cases become more complex or involve allegations of abuse or risk, a family forensic assessment may be necessary. These evaluations use psychological testing, interviews, and third-party collateral input to paint a comprehensive picture of the family unit. The final report may be used in court proceedings to inform decision-making about custody and access.
Our Process: Compassionate, Neutral, and Child-Centred
We understand that undergoing a parental custody assessment can be stressful. Our process is intentionally transparent and respectful, ensuring every party is treated with dignity and care. Here's what you can expect:
- Initial Consultation: An intake call to understand your concerns, goals, and legal context.
- Data Collection: Structured interviews with both parents, children (when appropriate), and relevant third parties such as teachers or health professionals.
- Observation: If necessary, direct observation of parent-child interactions in natural or clinical settings.
- Psychological Testing: Evidence-based tools may be used to assess parenting capacity, emotional regulation, and interpersonal functioning.
- Report Writing: A detailed, neutral report is prepared, including observations, findings, and recommendations focused on the child's best interests.
Why Choose Wholesome Psychology?
At Wholesome Psychology, we are committed to creating emotionally safe, inclusive, and respectful spaces for all families. Our psychologists bring years of experience in family systems, trauma-informed care, and court-involved assessments. Our offices in Edmonton and St. Albert are designed to offer privacy, warmth, and a sense of safety, especially for children and caregivers navigating difficult transitions.
We emphasize clarity, communication, and compassion throughout every step of the assessment. Our work is grounded in clinical integrity and informed by current legal and psychological best practices. We also collaborate closely with lawyers, social workers, and family courts when necessary.
Meet Our Assessment Team
Our assessments are conducted by registered psychologists with specific training in family assessment and child development. To learn more about the clinicians who may guide your assessment process, please visit our Therapists page.
How to Get Started
To begin a parental custody assessment, please reach out to our intake team. We will guide you through the process, provide a quote based on your specific needs, and help you understand expected timelines. Whether you're self-referring or responding to a legal requirement, our goal is to make this process as smooth, respectful, and informative as possible.
Book your assessment today by visiting our Contact page.
Additional Support and Resources
Serving Edmonton, St. Albert, and Surrounding Areas
Wholesome Psychology proudly serves clients across Edmonton, St. Albert, and nearby communities in Alberta. We offer in-person services in both cities and virtual consultations where appropriate. We are committed to helping families find clarity and resolution during complex transitions, always with the child’s well-being at the centre.
If you're seeking a reliable, respectful, and experienced partner for your Parental Custody Assessment, we're here to support you every step of the way.
