About Us
Dr. Debra Carter, Co-Founder
Dr. Carter is a recognized innovator in the field of Parenting Coordination having written the first comprehensive book on the practice of parenting coordination that incorporates the social science underlying this innovative alternative dispute resolution process. As a Licensed Psychologist who specializes in forensic child and family psychology, Dr. Carter has provided custody evaluations, expert witness testimony, and litigation consultation services for over 25 years. Dr. Carter and colleagues have also published pioneering research on parenting coordination and the potential impact for children and families caught in the crucible of high conflict divorce.
In addition to her practice, research, and publications, Dr. Carter, in conjunction with professional groups, developed the professional training program for parenting coordination that integrates core legal and psychological knowledge and meets both the AFCC and APA Guidelines for the ethical practice of parenting coordination. She has trained thousands of professionals since 2000 and been recognized by colleagues for her contributions to family law including receipt of the AFCC President’s Award, the Hon. John Van Duzer Distinguished Service Award, and “Psychologist of the Year” amongst many others.
Dr. Carter serves on the FL Supreme Court Parenting Coordination Workgroup and is a frequent speaker and trainer for the Advanced Judicial Studies college, the American Psychological Association, the Association of Family & Conciliation Courts, the Marital Inns of Court, many State Bar Associations, and Universities including University of South Florida and the University of Rome.
Dr. Michael B. Spellman, Co-Founder
Dr. Spellman is a licensed Clinical Psychologist and Certified Parenting Coordinator, as well as a Florida Supreme Court Certified Family Law Mediator. In these capacities, he has worked extensively with children, families, and the court over the past 30 years. Dr. Spellman also serves as a consultant to clinicians and corporations that are interested in maximizing their quality of service.
Dr. Spellman has served on Florida’s Commission on Mental Health and Substance Abuse and was awarded “Psychologist of the Year” by his peers. On the national level, Dr. Spellman was awarded the prestigious Heiser Award by the American Psychological Association. In addition to his work in the area of forensic psychology, Dr. Spellman’s practice is focused on children with attention deficit disorders and other academic challenges. He enjoys a reputation as an astute diagnostician with training in both psychological and neuropsychological assessment.
