Season 4, Episode 3:

Court-Ordered Trauma: When Visitation Endangers Children

Release Date: September 21, 2026

Content Areas: Today, we are discussing the risks children may experience when visitation is court-ordered, particularly in situations where courts mandate potentially unsafe reunification or visitation. We will examine the responsibility of the parent to maintain a positive environment for the child and shield them from the history of violence they may have previously experienced. We will also consider the potential impact and harm these decisions may have on children, as well as the burden placed on children to adapt to difficult situations and unhealthy environments. Additionally, we will explore gaps in supervised visitation policies and consider who is responsible for ensuring the child’s safety. Finally, we will discuss the importance of evaluating parental fitness and determining whether a parent can maintain a safe and supportive environment for the child.

Facilitator: Sherry Peters

Guest: Toni Shearer

Resources / Publications:

Music in this episode is:  “Adding the Sun” by Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)

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