Family Law

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Natalie brings over 14 years of forensic experience to her work as a clinical psychologist, having provided comprehensive assessments for the Children’s Court since 2010. Her background includes parenting capacity evaluations, restoration and Section 90 assessments, long‑term placement reviews, foster carer and kinship assessments, attachment and bonding evaluations, and assessments involving Aboriginal families and carers. She has also completed extensive individual cognitive, developmental, behavioural, and mental health assessments for children, adolescents, and adults. 

Natalie’s reports have informed child protection decisions, and she has appeared as an expert witness in the Children’s Court as well as before the NSW Civil and Administrative Tribunal (NCAT). This depth of experience provides a strong forensic foundation and equips her to deliver independent, neutral and professional opinions that support safe, child‑focused decision‑making in complex family matters. Natalie has now broadened her practice to include Family Law assessments including the following:

Child Impact assessments assist the Court in understanding a child’s immediate experiences, needs, and any safety concerns relevant to interim decision‑making. These shorter, early‑stage assessments focus on identifying risk, clarifying the child’s perspective, and highlighting factors that may require urgent attention. Child Impact Reports provide timely, child‑centred guidance to support protective and informed interim orders while longer assessments or proceedings continue.

Comprehensive Family Reports examine the broader family system, including parenting capacity, a child’s developmental and emotional needs, family dynamics, and any relevant risk factors such as mental health concerns or family violence. These assessments involve interviews with all parties, observations of parent–child interactions, review of collateral information, and the use of validated clinical tools. The resulting report offers an independent, evidence‑based opinion to assist the Court in determining safe, appropriate, and developmentally supportive parenting arrangements.

Specific Issues assessments are utilised when the Court requires a focused, independent opinion on a particular matter in dispute. These assessments address clearly defined questions such as relocation, supervised contact, allegations of family violence, parental conflict, or concerns about a parent’s behaviour or capacity. 

Mental Health assessments examine a parent’s psychological functioning, diagnostic considerations, and the potential impact of mental health factors on parenting, safety, and a child’s wellbeing. These evaluations may include clinical interviews, standardised psychological testing, behavioural observations, and review of treatment history or collateral information. 

In Family Court proceedings, cross‑examination allows legal representatives to ask an expert witness questions about their assessment, clarify the basis of their opinions, and explore any matters relevant to the case. It is a routine part of the Court process that supports transparency and a clear understanding of the evidence presented. Natalie is available to appear for cross‑examination when required.