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What Is Supervised Visitation
Supervised Visitation (also called Monitored Visitation) refers to contact between a non-custodial parent and one or more of their children in the presence of a neutral third party (the Monitor). The Monitor observes the visit to help ensure the safety and emotional well-being of everyone involved.
What Are the Rules During a Supervised Visit?
To maintain a safe, positive environment, all visits are guided by a set of rules, including:
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The Monitor must be present at all times.
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All conversations must be clearly audible—no whispering, note-passing, or hand signals.
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No discussion of the court case or future custody arrangements.
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No negative talk about the other parent or their family.
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No attempts to gather personal information about the other parent.
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No physical punishment, threatening, or intimidation of children.
What is a Monitored Exchange?
Monitored (Supervised) Exchange is when a neutral party supervises the safe transfer of the child(ren) from one parent to another. The goal is to avoid conflict between parents and ensure the child feels secure during transitions. Exchanges often occur without any direct contact between the parents.
Why is Supervised Visitation Ordered?
The court may order supervised visitation for several reasons, including:
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Reintroduction of a parent after a long absence.
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Building a new relationship between parent and child.
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Concerns related to domestic violence, abuse, neglect, or substance use.
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Preventing parental abduction.
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Mental health concerns or parenting risks.
The primary focus is the child’s safety, comfort, and emotional well-being.
What Happens During the Intake Interview?
The Intake Interview is mandatory and must be completed by both the custodial and non-custodial parent (separately). During this meeting:
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Required documents are reviewed (court order, ID, photos, protective orders, etc.).
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Guidelines and visitation rules are explained.
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Service agreements are signed.
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Intake fees are collected separately for each parent.
Who is a Supervised Visitation Monitor?
There are three types of visitation providers:
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Non-Professional Provider – A trained friend or family member who volunteers to monitor visits.
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Professional Provider – A trained, paid monitor (like DMF Consulting) who offers structured services.
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Therapeutic Provider – A licensed mental health professional overseeing visits.
Your court order may specify which type of provider you must use.
What Training Do Monitors Receive?
Professional and therapeutic monitors follow California’s Standard 5.20 of the Judicial Administration, which outlines training in safety, child development, neutrality, and report writing. We also follow best practices from the Supervised Visitation Network.
What is the Role of the Monitor?
The Monitor is a neutral third party who:
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Maintains a safe environment for the child.
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Observes interactions and enforces visitation rules.
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Documents activities and behaviors during the visit.
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Reports any violations, safety concerns, or suspected abuse.
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Suspends visits if safety is compromised.
What Authority Does the Monitor Have?
As a court-ordered neutral party, the Monitor ensures compliance with all visitation guidelines. If rules are broken or safety is at risk, the Monitor can end the visit and report details to the court or legal representatives. The Monitor does not take sides or act as a therapist—our role is child safety and neutrality.
Why Use a Professional Instead of a Friend or Relative?
While courts may allow non-professional providers, they can create unintended conflicts or inconsistencies. Professional monitors:
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Remain impartial.
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Reduce strain on family or friendships.
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Prevent one parent from feeling unfairly scrutinized.
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Ensure consistency, neutrality, and documentation.
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Help focus the visit on building the parent-child relationship.
How Can I Ensure the Service Meets My Needs?
Start by reviewing your court order to confirm the type of supervision required. Then, contact the provider to ensure they can meet those terms, including:
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Availability
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Language needs
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Location and timing
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Provider experience and training
Both custodial and non-custodial parents are encouraged to prioritize the child’s best interest when scheduling and preparing for visits.
We’re Here to Support You
We know this process can be unfamiliar and emotional. Our goal is to create a safe, welcoming space where children can maintain healthy, loving connections. If you have questions or concerns, we’re always here to guide you through it.
