At MASS Private Practice, we offer specialised services to support the emotional, relational, and developmental well-being of both children and adults navigating complex family dynamics. With a focus on holistic, child-centred care, our services range from socio-emotional and forensic assessments to voice of the child evaluations, parental coordination, and mediation. Each process is guided by evidence-based frameworks, legal standards, and deep compassion—ensuring every intervention prioritises the best interests of the child and promotes healthier, more stable family relationships.
VOICE OF THE CHILD | VOC
Section 10 of the Children’s Act 38 of 2005 states that every child who is of such age, maturity, and developmental stage has the right to participate in matters that concerning them—and that their views must be taken into account. This assessment honors that right by creating a safe, supportive space for the child to express their thoughts, experiences, and wishes.
MEDIATION & PARENTING PLANS
Mediation is a constructive, solution-focused process led by a neutral and impartial
professional—the mediator—who supports individuals in resolving conflict through open and
respectful dialogue. Rather than imposing decisions, the mediator facilitates a safe and
confidential space where both parties can express their needs, concerns, and perspectives.
SOCIO-EMOTIONAL ASSESSMENTS | SEA
A socio-emotional assessment offers a comprehensive and holistic understanding of a child’s
experience within the various significant relationships and systems in their life.
It aims to understand the child’s emotional responses to these systems and identify the factors contributing to their current experiences.
FORENSIC EVALUATION
The Forensic Social Worker follows the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD) protocol and utilises the
Comprehensive Assessment Model to conduct forensic interviews into allegations of abuse. These established frameworks ensure a detailed and systematic approach to understanding the facts and considering alternative hypotheses.
PARENTAL COORDINATION
A Parental Coordinator (PC) supports parents in resolving ongoing parenting disputes, with a strong focus on promoting the best interests of the child(ren) and reducing conflict between parents. The role of the PC combines elements of mediation, education, negotiation.
SUPERVISED CONTACT
Supervised contact is often recommended when there are concerns about a child’s emotional or physical safety during interactions with one or both parents. The primary goal is to ensure the child’s safety while maintaining contact with the parent in a secure, conflict-free environment.
HOME VISITS
Home visit assessments are conducted to evaluate the safety, well-being, and overall living
conditions of children within their home environment.
CARE & CONTACT INVESTIGATIONS
The aim of a care and contact investigation is to determine the most suitable arrangements for
children and their parents, guardians, or co-holders of parental responsibilities.
INTERACTIONAL ANALYSIS
An interactional analysis is an evidence-based assessment that examines the interaction
between a child and a caregiver/parent.
RISK & SAFETY ASSESSMENT TOOL
The Risk and Safety Assessment Tool is used to systematically evaluate factors that may place
a child at risk of harm, as well as to identify protective elements within the child’s environment.
This structured tool assists the social worker in assessing both immediate safety concerns, and
long-term risks related to abuse, neglect, or exposure to harmful situations.