Texas Family Code Parenting Coordinator Overview
Coordinator: Ashten Gallagher, Ed.D, LCSW-S, MSW
Services available beginning June 2025
What is a Texas Family Code Parenting Coordinator?
A Texas family code parenting coordinator is a neutral person and neutral process where a licensed and trained professional is appointed by the court to help parents resolve disputes and make decisions about their children. They are a licensed professional but do not serve as the family’s therapist in any way.
-
They help parents communicate more effectively and find solutions that are in the best interest of their children, minimizing conflict and stress.
-
Coordinators assist parents in adhering to court-ordered parenting plans or help them create new ones that work for both parties.
-
They prioritize the well-being of the children and help parents understand the impact of their decisions on their kids.
-
Parenting coordinators provide a CONFIDENTIAL service and can only report to the court whether coordination is helpful and should continue.
-
Coordinators in Texas must have a bachelors or master’s in a relevant field such as psychology, social work and extensive training in mediation and family and child dynamics. For more specific information see the link provided below.
-
While they can help with disputes, parenting facilitators/coodinators cannot override existing court orders.
For information directly from the State of Texas regarding what a parent coordinator in Texas does, check out:
Texas Family Code, specifically Chapter 153, Subchapter K : Parenting Coordinator Information
More Questions?: Parent Coordinator FAQ
Want to learn more about co-parenting? Check out the Co-Parenting Manual blog