I would recommend caution in considering using a mental health intern in
the role of child specialist or coach. Even though a person may be
extraordinarily talented and experienced in important ways, there is
nothing that can replace the training, supervision, and experience that
goes into the licensure process of the mental health professions. These
roles require the professional to understand intimately relationship
dynamics, boundaries, and how to maintain leverage and neutrality with
both spouses (in the case of a one-coach model), while also facilitating
an emotionally safe environment where parties can make tough, important
decisions. I realize there is some degree of debate/discussion about
the Mental Health Roles, and qualifications out there. For now, the
practice group in Minnesota that I am a part of requires that all
Coaches and Child Specialists be licensed in their field, as well as
have additional experience and training around domestic violence,
mediation, family systems, and child development for Child Specialists.
I'm also interested in what others have to say about this question.
Brian Burns
Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist
St. Paul, MN
