Family disputes—especially those involving custody, parenting time, or access—can become emotionally charged and legally complex. When parents are unable to reach an agreement, the Alberta court system may order a PN7 parenting assessment. At Wholesome Psychology, based in Edmonton and St. Albert, our registered psychologists provide compassionate, evidence-informed PN7 assessments designed to assist the court in making decisions that prioritize children’s best interests.
We understand that families facing high-conflict legal disputes often feel overwhelmed. Our team is here to guide you through the PN7 assessment process with clarity, neutrality, and professionalism—always centering the well-being of your children.
What Is a PN7 Assessment?
A PN7 assessment is a type of forensic parenting evaluation conducted under Alberta's Practice Note 7. These assessments are court-ordered when significant conflict or concern exists in a family law case, and the court requires expert input to resolve parenting disputes. PN7 assessments are conducted by trained parenting experts, typically psychologists, who provide the court with objective, detailed information about family dynamics, parenting capacity, and the needs of the children involved.
The purpose of a PN7 assessment is not to decide which parent is "better," but rather to assess the current circumstances and make informed recommendations that promote a child’s emotional, physical, and psychological well-being.
When Are PN7 Assessments Ordered?
PN7 assessments are typically ordered when:
- Parents are in ongoing or escalating conflict that prevents them from making joint parenting decisions.
- Mediation has been unsuccessful or is deemed inappropriate.
- Concerns exist about parenting capacity, mental health, substance use, or allegations of abuse or neglect.
- There is a need to better understand a child’s wishes, emotional state, or relationship with each parent.
These assessments can provide the court with vital insight that is not otherwise accessible through legal documentation alone.
Types of PN7 Assessments
Each PN7 assessment is tailored to the family’s needs and the court’s questions. Common types include:
Triage Assessment
A brief, focused assessment to identify the most appropriate next steps. Often used to determine whether a full evaluation or therapeutic intervention is necessary.
Voice of the Child
Gives children an age-appropriate opportunity to express their thoughts and feelings regarding parenting arrangements. This can help the court understand the child’s perspective while minimizing emotional pressure.
Parenting Psychological Assessment
Evaluates a parent’s psychological functioning, personality traits, and capacity to meet their child’s needs. This includes reviewing stress management, communication skills, and parenting values.
Child/Adolescent Psychological Assessment
Assesses the emotional and developmental status of the child or youth. This is especially important in cases where children show signs of anxiety, depression, trauma, or behavioural concerns linked to family conflict.
Focused Assessment
A narrowly defined evaluation targeting specific issues such as parental alienation, relocation, substance use, or mental health concerns.
What a PN7 Assessment Includes
PN7 assessments are comprehensive and methodical. Depending on the court’s requirements, the process may include:
- Individual interviews with each parent or caregiver to understand concerns, parenting history, and relationship dynamics.
- Developmentally appropriate interviews or play-based sessions with children.
- Direct observation of parent-child interactions in both structured and informal settings.
- Standardized psychological tests or parenting assessments, if needed.
- Collateral interviews with teachers, doctors, counsellors, or extended family (with appropriate consent).
- Review of court documents, school records, and other relevant history.
- Home visits to observe the living environment and assess routines, safety, and emotional tone.
After the evaluation is complete, the Parenting Expert prepares a written report for the court. This report includes findings, clinical impressions, and evidence-informed recommendations to guide decisions related to parenting time, decision-making, or further support needs.
How Long Does a PN7 Assessment Take?
Most assessments require between 10 and 20 hours to complete, although complex cases may take longer. Timelines may vary depending on court schedules, participant availability, and the specific type of evaluation requested.
Importantly, the final report is submitted to the court and only released to parents if ordered by the court. In some cases, children may be permitted to read or have the report read to them, based on age and developmental readiness.
Neutrality and Ethical Practice
At Wholesome Psychology, neutrality is a core value. We do not take sides or advocate for one parent over another. Our assessments are impartial, confidential, and informed by current psychological research and best practices. We understand the stakes are high—and we approach every case with the empathy and professionalism it deserves.
We also adhere to ethical boundaries: if one of our psychologists conducts a PN7 assessment, they will not provide therapy to any family member involved in the case. This maintains the objectivity and credibility of the process.
Local Expertise You Can Trust
Our team is deeply rooted in the communities of Edmonton and St. Albert. We are familiar with the family court systems, local legal professionals, and the unique needs of Alberta families. We provide a welcoming, judgment-free space for parents and children to participate in this often difficult—but important—process.
Related Services and Information
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Ready to Begin?
Whether you are a parent navigating a high-conflict separation or a legal professional seeking a qualified expert, we are here to help. Our intake team can provide an estimated quote, expected timelines, and answer any questions you have about the assessment process.
Contact Wholesome Psychology today to schedule your PN7 assessment in Edmonton or St. Albert. We’re ready to support you—and your family—through this critical step toward resolution and healing.
