FAQ

                                                                                                                                Questions and Answers About "Cooperative Parenting"

Question:  We have a high conflict divorce.  Is this the right program for us?

Answer:  Definitely!!  Some of our most successful graduates have labeled themselves as "high conflict" people.  It is impossible to predict which parents will take advantage of the ideas and strategies provided in our class and transform their co-parenting relationship.  All parents (raising their children in two homes) can benefit from the class no matter where they rank themselves on the Conflict Continuum (from high to low).  No matter what the level of conflict or how long parents have been adversaries, positive change is always possible and desirable.  When just one parent opts for a civilized approach, the children benefit from that improvement.

Question: Does this course meet the requirement to take a high conflict coparenting class?

Answer: Yes. The emphasis in Cooperative Parenting is on limited, business-like communication and emotional detachment. Parents with a long history of conflict (including restraining orders) are appropriate candidates for "Cooperative Parenting.

Question:  Why isn't "Cooperative Parenting" offered on-line?

Answer:  Help for the issues and problems within co-parenting relationships is far better provided in-person where actual interaction and immediate feedback can be done.  Parents often comment that being in a room with other parents is helpful because they no longer feel so alone with their problems.  The benefits of group dynamics and social learning far outweighs the "convenience" factor provided by on-line classes.  There is no substitute for sitting in a class with others who are struggling with similar problems and seeking new directions.

Question:  Why should I invest my time, energy and money in this class?

Answer:  First, because you are wise enough to make an investment in peace for everyone.  Second, because you love your children and want to spare them the trauma and pain of a conflicted co-parenting relationship.  Creating peaceful bridges between homes for the children is the most compelling reason to attend Cooperative Parenting. 

Question:  What will I learn in "Cooperative Parenting"?  

Answer:  The "Program Overview" on this web-site will give you some information about the course content.  Overall, you will learn how to become a more calm and solution-focused parent.  You will learn how to communicate more effectively and assertively with your child's other parent.  New ideas and skills will give you better tools to cope with your own feeling and help you respond to challenges presented by the other parent.  "Cooperative Parenting" is a caring and compassionate classroom experience that challenges you to function at the best possible level in the interest of peace.

Question:  Do both parents attend the same class?

Answer:  No.  One parent attends his or her own class.  This permits each participant to be as open and candid as possible.  However, new mates and other family members and friends can attend the workshop with the parent.  The information presented can benefit all the adults in the life of the child.

Question:  Where are workshops held?

Answer:  There are three classes available each month in communities that are easily accessed by parents.  Currently, we offer classes in San Diego, Chula Vista, La Mesa, Encinitas and Escondido.

Question:  How much is the tuition?

Answer:  Tuition rates can be found on the registration form.  We like to remind parents that, in most cases,  a great deal of money has been spent on the dispute.  Tuition represents an investment in peace.  Tuition is sliding scale and is based on household (not individual parent) income.  A parent who pays child support can deduct that payment from their household income.  A parent who receives support must count that amount in household income.    

Question:   Who teaches the "Cooperative Parenting" class?  

Answer:  We have an expert staff of licensed therapists and credentialed teachers who teach Cooperative Parenting.  For more information about our Group Leaders, please visit the "About Us". page on this web-site.

Question:  What if I have to miss a class?

Answer:  It is best for participants to complete all three sessions in order and with the same class.  However, if a parent must miss a session, it can be made up in a different location and at a different time.  Simply call Mary, our Program Coordinator, at 760-436-3039 and she will help you get into a make up class.

Question:  Is child care provided?

Answer:  No.  It will be necessary for you to arrange child care since we do not have any child care help available.

Question:  Is the class available in Spanish?

Answer:  Classes are offered only in English, but parents who need help with translation can bring someone with them to interpret if necessary.


In closing, "Cooperative Parenting" is a wake up call for many parents.  It serves as a catalyst for making healthy changes.  "Cooperative Parenting" has a fine reputation and is so popular because it has demonstrated its efficacy since 2000.