Keeping parents and kids connected
What is Supervised Visitation?
The WDRC’s Supervised Visitation Program provides a positive and safe place for parents and children to visit with one another.
Supervised visitation is contact between a non-custodial parent and the child(ren) in the presence of a third person responsible for observing and ensuring the safety of those involved.
Who uses Supervised Visitation?
Families that are going through difficult and/or transitional times use Supervised Visitation. Families participate in Supervised Visitation when the Court has determined that supervision of visits is necessary or when the parents/guardians have agreed to supervision.
“The staff took the time to get to know me, as well as my son and his mother, and respectfully help a father reconnect with his son.”
Who is eligible?
Whatcom County court-ordered supervised visitation
Self-referral on a case-by-case basis
The program accepts eligible cases which it is equipped to serve, and reserves the right to decline cases.
How does it work?
Once custodial and non-custodial parents/parties contact the WDRC, separate intake interviews are held to gather background information, explain the program, and describe program rules. After both parental parties have completed their intakes, they complete an orientation to the visit process and the first visit is scheduled. During visits, a trained Visit Supervisor is present at all times. The Visit Supervisor monitors the parent-child contact to ensure program rules are followed for everyone's safety and comfort.
The program operates from an observational model, not a therapeutic model. The program does not participate in making the decision that supervised visits are necessary, does not perform assessments, does not provide evaluation reports, and does not make recommendations to the Court or third parties. The program should be left out of the legal process.
What is the cost?
At this time, there is no required fee, but the WDRC requests donations for this underfunded program.
Is Supervised Visitation for you?
If you are unsure whether Supervised Visitation might be useful for you and your family, call (360)-676-0122 to discuss your situation with our staff.
Supervised Visitation Network Member
The Whatcom Dispute Resolution Center is a proud member of the Supervised Visitation Network, an international membership network that establishes standards, promotes education, and advances professionalism in the field.
Volunteering with our Supervised Visitation Program
We are seeking volunteer Visit Supervisors. Please visit our volunteer page for a description of our volunteer program and position description.