Experts Say ‘Parental Alienation’ Is Being Misused in Family Courts

Why Experts Say ‘Parental Alienation’ Is Being Misused in Family Courts Around the World

Parental alienation in family court is frequently used to dismiss claims of abuse and blame protective parents or accuse children of "making up stories." “When allegations of domestic violence are raised, the first question should always be whether the child is safe,” Dr. Timpanaro says. “Children’s voices deserve to be heard.”

In family court, the controversial and medically unrecognized concept of "parental alienation" is frequently used to dismiss claims of abuse and blame protective parents, often resulting in children being placed in unsafe environments [1]. This strategy, condemned by international experts, flips the script to reframe abusive behavior as parental manipulation, requiring courts to refocus on empirical evidence of safety rather than pseudo-scientific theories [1]. For more information, visit https://stepupfamilyservices.com/about-us/

Allegations of "parental alienation" are frequently used in family courts to discredit mothers reporting domestic abuse, turning legitimate safety concerns into accusations of manipulation. Experts and UN officials warn that this unproven theory is used to force children into contact with abusive parents, prioritizing the ideology over child safety. Read the full analysis for more insights on this issue: https://medium.com/@cathyjonesfsu/why-experts-say-parental-alienation-is-being-misused-in-family-courts-around-the-world-560540d3d533

Dr. David Timpanaro, Founder and CEO of Step Up Family Services, highlights a deeply concerning trend in modern family courts where the pursuit of power often completely overrides actual child welfare, creating a traumatic complex of guilt and blame for vulnerable children caught in high-conflict custody cases. He calls for an immediate, fundamental shift in our legal system to prioritize genuine child protection over rigid institutional control and to firmly ensure physical safety in all complex custody disputes. For more critical insights on this pressing issue, read the full analysis on Medium or reach out directly to us.

 

 

 

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"Our approach is simple, effective, and built around connection — and it begins with our signature 3‑Step Support Journey, designed to guide every client from their first call to lasting progress."

Step Up Family Mental Health Support Services . Every journey begins one step at a time.

Learn more about our mental health support services

At Step Up Family Services, we believe that meaningful healing starts with feeling safe, supported, and truly heard. Families across New Jersey trust our team because we provide immediate access to compassionate mental health support services without the long wait times that often prevent people from getting help when they need it most. Our approach is simple, effective, and built around connection — and it begins with our signature 3‑Step Support Journey, designed to guide every client from their first call to lasting progress.

The 3‑Step Support Journey for Mental Health Support Services
1️⃣ Welcome & Stability Session
Your journey begins with a warm, supportive session focused on safety, grounding, and immediate stabilization. Clients meet with an experienced professional who listens closely, understands their needs, and provides tools they can use right away.

2️⃣ Personalized Care Plan Session
In step two, we work together to build a care plan that reflects your goals, your voice, and your unique circumstances. This collaborative session empowers clients and families to take an active role in shaping their path forward.

3️⃣ Progress & Hope Session
The final step celebrates growth and strengthens your support system. We review improvements, identify what feels easier, and highlight the progress you’ve made. Clients also receive premium resources to continue building confidence and resilience.

How different approaches work:

https://www.apa.org/topics/psychotherapy/approaches

At Step Up Family Services, healing begins with safety, trust, and hope. Our no‑waitlist model ensures that children, teens, and adults can access care quickly, with experienced therapists who are among the most sought‑after in New Jersey.

📍 StepUpFamilyServices.com | 973‑298‑0763

The 3-Step Support Journey for your Mental Health Support Needs
Step Up Family Services supports you with the help and structure you need.
The 3‑Step Support Journey for mental health support services
A compassionate pathway for new clients and families:
1️⃣ Welcome & Stability Session – Safety, connection, and immediate support.
2️⃣ Personalized Care Plan Session – Your goals. Your voice. Your journey.
3️⃣ Progress & Hope Session – Celebrate growth and strengthen your support system.
💚 Healing begins with safety, trust, and hope.
Immediate access. Compassionate care. No waitlist.
📍 StepUpFamilyServices.com | 973‑298‑0763

"Dr. David Timpanaro, founder of Step Up Family Services, on the Wraparound the World Podcast Episode 21: Beyond the Process: Supporting Youth."

Check out Dr. David Timpanaro, founder of Step Up Family Services, on the Wraparound the World Podcast! You can see the whole episode using this link: Wraparound the World Episode 21

"Step Up Family Services is proud to announce the expansion of our mental health and ABA therapy programs in Brick, New Jersey — a move designed to increase access, reduce wait times, and better serve children, teens, adults, and families across Ocean and Monmouth Counties."

📝 OPEN ENROLLMENT:

Step Up Family Services Expands Behavioral Health & ABA Services in Brick, NJ

Step Up Family Services Announces Major Expansion at 74 Brick Blvd., Brick NJ

Step Up Family Services is proud to announce the expansion of our mental health and ABA therapy programs in Brick, New Jersey — a move designed to increase access, reduce wait times, and better serve children, teens, adults, and families across Ocean and Monmouth Counties.

With growing community need and a commitment to providing high‑quality, compassionate care, Step Up is expanding into two dedicated suites at our Brick location:

 

🌿 Outpatient Mental Health Counseling Now Open at Suite #114 — No Waitlist, Open Enrollment

Our new Outpatient Counseling Center at 74 Brick Blvd., Suite #114 is officially open and accepting new clients with NO WAITLIST.

We provide comprehensive mental health services for:

Our licensed clinicians offer evidence‑based, client‑centered care in a welcoming, supportive environment. Whether an individual with specialized treatment needs or family seeking ongoing therapy, short‑term support, Step Up is ready to help — without delays.

🧩 ABA Therapy Expands Into Larger Suite #120 — Open Enrollment & No Waitlist

Due to increased demand and our commitment to providing high‑quality Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) services, Step Up Family Services is expanding ABA operations into a larger, dedicated space at 74 Brick Blvd., Suite #120.

This expansion allows us to offer:

Families can access individualized ABA treatment plans, BCBA‑led programming, and a collaborative, family‑centered approach — all without the long delays common in the region.

💙 Our Commitment to the Community

Step Up Family Services continues to grow because families trust our mission:

to provide accessible, high‑quality behavioral health and ABA services that empower children, strengthen families, and support long‑term success.

With expanded space, increased staffing, and immediate availability, we’re proud to serve the Brick community with the care and responsiveness families deserve.

📞 Contact Us

Step Up Family Services – Brick, NJ

74 Brick Blvd., Suites 114 & 120

Brick, NJ

Phone: 973-298-0763

Website: www.stepupfamilyservices.com

"Step Forward Family Network hosts a Tricky Tray Fundraiser for Autism Awareness in April 2026."

Check out our non-profit partner's tricky tray event! All proceeds go to help families in need of mental and behavioral health services. Buy tickets here!

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1981246535722?aff=oddtdtcreator

The event will take place on April 18, 2026 from 1pm-4pm at:

The Barn Kitchen and Bar

11 Green Pond Road

Rockaway, NJ

Marie Alice Stout says, "I have nearly a decade of experience working in the field of substance use, mental health, and peer support, having begun my career as a Recovery Specialist. I hold a Master of Social Work (MSW) from Fordham University and am both a Licensed Clinical Alcohol and Drug Counselor (LCADC) and Licensed Social Worker (LSW)."

Book an appointment today with Marie Alice Stout, LSW, LCADC. 
About Me
I have nearly a decade of experience working in the field of substance use, mental health, and peer support, having begun my career as a Recovery Specialist. I hold a Master of Social Work (MSW) from Fordham University and am both a Licensed Clinical Alcohol and Drug Counselor (LCADC) and Licensed Social Worker (LSW). In addition, I am certified in Mindfulness, C-DBT (Cognitive Dialectical Behavior Therapy), and Telehealth Counseling.
My approach is collaborative, compassionate, and action-oriented. I aim to help each individual uncover their potential, overcome fears, and navigate life’s challenges through a blend of evidence-based techniques and supportive guidance. Together, we will create a personalized action plan to strengthen coping skills, communication, emotional regulation, and self-advocacy.
I believe that therapy is not just about healing—it’s about growth. Whether you’re working through addiction, mental health concerns, difficult relationships, or a negative self-image, I provide a safe and non-judgmental space to help you develop insight, resilience, and tools for lasting change. My mission is to help you move forward with confidence and reclaim your inner strength.

Book your appointment with Marie Alice, today!

"Step Up Family Services is seeking a clinically licensed therapist (LCSW or LPC) to join our growing outpatient counseling team for a varied caseload of children through adults."

Outpatient Therapist
Step Up Family Services is seeking a clinically licensed therapist (LCSW or LPC) to join our growing outpatient counseling team for a varied caseload of children through adults. Part time -full time caseloads available and hours are flexible based on your availability. Experience in working with children and adolescents is necessary. Days, evening and weekend hours available. Not required to get your own referrals.
Therapist may provide both in person sessions and Telehealth sessions.
Job Types: Full-time, Part-time
Pay: $50.00 - $65.00 per hour
Expected hours: 10 – 20 per week
Benefits:
  • Flexible schedule
  • Paid time off
Work Location: Hybrid remote in Parsippany, NJ 07054
Please click here to APPLY

"Wraparound collaboration is more than just a buzzword—it’s a structured, holistic approach to care."

The Power of Wraparound Collaboration: Transforming Mental Health and ABA Services
At Step Up Family Services, we believe that healing and growth don’t happen in isolation—they happen through connection. That’s why we champion the wraparound model: a collaborative, family-centered approach that brings together a team of professionals, caregivers, and community supports to create a unified plan for each individual’s success.

What Is Wraparound Collaboration?
Wraparound collaboration is more than just a buzzword—it’s a structured, holistic approach to care. Originally developed to support children with complex emotional and behavioral needs, the wraparound model ensures that all service providers—mental health therapists, ABA specialists, educators, and family members—work together toward shared goals 1.

At the heart of this model is a dedicated care coordinator who ensures communication flows smoothly between all parties. This person helps align strategies, track progress, and adjust plans as needed, ensuring that the individual’s needs remain front and center.

Why It Matters in Mental Health and ABA Services
Mental health and ABA (Applied Behavior Analysis) services often intersect, especially for children and adolescents with autism, ADHD, anxiety, or trauma-related challenges. Without collaboration, these services can become fragmented—leading to confusion, inconsistent strategies, and missed opportunities for progress.

Here’s how wraparound collaboration makes a difference:

Consistency Across Environments: When ABA therapists and mental health counselors share insights and strategies, children receive consistent support at home, in school, and in therapy sessions.
Family Empowerment: Families are not just passive recipients of care—they’re active members of the team. Wraparound planning ensures their voices are heard and their strengths are leveraged.
Faster, More Sustainable Progress: Unified goals and coordinated interventions reduce redundancy and accelerate growth.
Crisis Prevention and Response: With a team in place, families have a built-in support network ready to respond to challenges before they escalate.
Real Impact, Real Stories
At Step Up Family Services, we’ve seen firsthand how wraparound collaboration transforms lives. Whether it’s a child learning to regulate emotions more effectively or a family finally feeling supported and understood, the outcomes speak for themselves.

One parent shared:

“My daughter currently receives services through Step Up and we could not be happier. They have gone above and beyond and consistently exceed our expectations. My team is amazing and I cannot thank them enough for their continued support.”

Our Commitment to Holistic, Family-Centered Care
With locations in Brick and Parsippany, NJ, our team of Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs), licensed therapists, and care coordinators are dedicated to providing personalized, wraparound support. Whether through in-home ABA therapy, outpatient counseling, or diagnostic services, we’re here to walk alongside you—every step of the way.

Ready to experience the difference of wraparound care?
Contact us today to learn how we can build a support team tailored to your family’s needs.

"It is time to be proactive instead of reactive. The wraparound model is more than what is presented. It is the designed base for the New Jersey children's system of Care, but it should be incorporated in all mental health and behavioral health treatment."

Step Up Family Services Aba Therapy Staff at Wraparound conference

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

This conference was really eye-opening, Jay and the Wraparound the World crew are the foundation of all human service. (mentalhealth, behavioralhealth, psychiatricservices, schools) WRAPAROUND  we are at a pivotal moment in where we can continue down the path of closing JDCs through wraparound or revert back to case management and increase recidivism again.

It is time to be proactive instead of reactive. The wraparound model is more than what is presented. It is the designed base for the NewJersey children's system of Care, but it should be incorporated in all mentalhealth and BehavioralHealth treatment. it's time to fix our JuvenileJustice & CriminalJustice systems. Autism ABA SubstanceAbuse
it was an honor to present with Ken McGill at the20255 National Wraparound Conference.

Dr. David Timpanaro- Presenting

While at the 2025 National Wraparound Conference, I was given the opportunity to present how wraparound reduces recidivism and can reduce workload through shared responsibilities. Please see my slides by scanning this QR Code.