Co-Parent with Confidence: Expert Insights from a Forensic Psychologist
Written by Heather Anderson
Co-parenting can feel like an impossible balancing act, especially when emotions run high. Whether you’re navigating custody disputes, communication breakdowns, or an entirely unexpected parenting dynamic, finding the right support can make all the difference. Enter Dr. Celeste Simmons, a forensic psychologist specializing in family cases. With experience consulting for courts, attorneys, and schools, she helps parents untangle high-conflict situations and find solutions that actually work.
Dr. Simmons' work goes beyond traditional therapy, offering actionable strategies tailored to each family’s unique challenges. In this conversation, she breaks down common co-parenting struggles, explains why therapy isn’t always the answer, and shares why a co-parenting cruise (yes, really!) might be the reset some families need.
What does a forensic psychologist do in a family setting? How do you help parents and families?
Forensic psychology simply means psychology applied to legal issues. I help people who are involved with the courts figure out the behaviors and dynamics that are creating conflict. In a family setting, that often means working with parents and children in high-stakes situations like custody disputes, co-parenting conflicts, and mandated evaluations. I help families identify the behavioral patterns that are causing problems and create strategies to move forward in a healthier way.
Many parents find themselves in high-conflict situations—whether due to a co-parenting challenge, a custody dispute, or something they never expected to face. What’s the first thing they should know about getting help?
First, therapy isn’t always the answer. A lot of parents are referred to therapy by attorneys or the courts, thinking that’s going to fix everything—but often, it’s not the right fit. If therapy hasn’t worked for you, that doesn’t mean you’ve failed. It might mean you need a different kind of support, like co-parenting consulting. For instance: Instead of focusing on “fixing” the relationship with your co-parent, I help you focus on what your children need and what you need to do as a parent to create the best possible outcomes for them. Co-parenting relationships don’t always change drastically, especially when conflict is present-and that is okay. My focus is not on forcing harmony but on helping parents move forward in a way that allows them to build a stable, fulfilling life and a positive parenting experience for their children.
Co-parenting can feel impossible when emotions run high. What’s the difference between parents who make it work and those who stay stuck in conflict?
The biggest challenge is not separating the past relationship from the current parenting relationship. A lot of parents bring old resentments into their co-parenting dynamic, which makes it difficult to move forward. Another common issue is that one parent may not have wanted the relationship to end, so they’re still emotionally tied to it, making co-parenting even harder. Successful co-parents treat their parenting dynamic as a new relationship, separate from the past.
“If therapy hasn’t worked for you, that doesn’t mean you’ve failed. It might mean you need a different kind of support, like co-parenting consulting.”
You work with parents who are exhausted from fighting and want a better dynamic for their kids. What are some common patterns you see?
One major issue is that parents often assume co-parenting won’t work before they even try. They’ve had bad experiences, so they come in with their guard up, thinking, “This won’t change.” Another challenge is that many parents focus on surface-level issues—like communication apps or agreements—when the real problem is something deeper, like unresolved resentment or mismatched parenting expectations.
You created the Parent Strategy Assessment. What is it, and why do parents find it so helpful?
Many parents assume that if they’re doing everything “right,” their parenting should work for all their kids. But children are individuals, and what works for one may not work for another. The Parent Strategy Assessment helps parents identify their default parenting style and whether it actually meets their child’s needs. Instead of boxing parents into categories, it provides a customized approach, helping parents adjust their strategies to work better for each child.
You offer more than just traditional therapy. What types of support do you provide for parents who need help but aren’t looking for a weekly therapy commitment?
I offer structured co-parenting support groups that are solution-driven, not just spaces to vent. These groups provide real strategies that parents can implement immediately. I also run specialized groups for unique situations, like parents co-parenting with an incarcerated ex. Each group is designed to help parents take tangible steps toward a better co-parenting dynamic.
Many parenting groups become places to vent rather than places for real change. What makes your co-parenting support group different?
I don’t consider my groups to be traditional support groups. A lot of parenting support groups turn into echo chambers where people give opinions based on their own emotions rather than helpful solutions. My groups are structured to focus on action. Parents don’t just talk about their struggles—they receive guided questioning, identify their goals, and leave with concrete steps to improve their co-parenting situation.
You’ve mentioned an unexpected idea—a co-parenting cruise. What made you think of this, and who would it be for?
This idea actually came from a conversation with my travel agent, who struggled with co-parenting herself. The cruise is designed for co-parents who are already at a place where they can collaborate but want to strengthen their dynamic. It’s about learning how to enjoy co-parenting and showing kids that their parents can work together, even if they’re not together.
What would parents actually do on this kind of trip?
The trip would include structured activities designed to improve communication and teamwork—like workshops, team-building exercises, and even fun activities like a ropes course to reinforce collaboration. It’s about modeling for your kids what a positive co-parenting relationship looks like.
You’re passionate about making sure often-overlooked parenting situations get the support they need. Can you share some of the more marginalized co-parenting dynamics you work with?
Absolutely. Some of the areas I specialize in include:
Same-sex co-parents—both original parents and step-parents, especially in cases where legal rights are complicated.
Single parents with inactive co-parents, helping them navigate co-parenting challenges even when the other parent is not involved.
Parents co-parenting with an incarcerated ex, providing guidance on custody, visitation, and maintaining healthy boundaries.
How can parents start working with you?
Get expert guidance in a group consultation setting so that you can co-parent with confidence and start making real progress.
Book a consultation – If you want personalized guidance, or are not sure what you need, schedule a session with me. Book here
Download the Co-Parenting Survival Checklist – This free guide will walk you through essential co-parenting strategies. Download here
Join the waitlist for therapy services – If you’re interested in therapy, you can join the waitlist. [Join here]
Connect with Celeste Simmons on Instagram or LinkedIn.
You can also find Dr. Celeste Simmons on The M List, The Mamahood’s searchable database of mom-recommended resources, or connect and collaborate with her inside The Club membership for women founders.