Beyond the Allegations: Understanding and Addressing Substance Use in Family Law Cases (December 14, 2026)

Mon, 14 Dec 2026 17:00:00 GMT

SPONSORED BY

Presented by Lauri Shannon, LCSW, MCAP & Wendy Coughlin, PhD, LMHC, MCAP

This seminar will address the nature of substance use disorders, provide guidance on how to identify when addiction may endanger the safety of children, and recommend safeguards to protect children and their parents. Toxicology options and helpful time schedules for monitoring a parent who may be using addictive substances will be discussed and exhibited. The Chutes and Ladders step-up timesharing schedule will be reviewed; participants will discuss when and how this protocol may be applied.

LEARNING OBJECTIVES

1. Understand the functions of substance use specialists in the family court system.
2. Identify the clinical criteria for substance use disorders.
3. Identify evidence-based monitoring options that support recovery and accountability.
4. Recognize how substance use disorders (SUDs) are perceived and addressed in family court.
WHO SHOULD ATTEND

Family law attorneys, judges, parenting coordinators, guardians ad litem, mediators, and mental health professionals who work with families affected by substance use disorders in custody and timesharing disputes.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Wendy Coughlin, PhD, LMHC, MCAP

LICENSED MENTAL HEALTH COUNSELOR

Florida LMHC in private practice for over 35 years. Masters Certified Addiction Professional, Family Mediator, Parenting Coordinator (6th, 12th & 13th Circuits), and Guardian ad Litem. Specializes in assessments and parenting plan recommendations for families affected by substance use disorder.

Provider for the Professional Resource Network, the Intervention Project for Nurses, and the Suncoast Safety Council.

drwendycoughlin.com

Lauri Shannon, LCSW, MCAP

LICENSED CLINICAL SOCIAL WORKER

Over 20 years of experience in individual therapy for adults and adolescents, licensed in Florida and New York. Parenting Coordinator, Guardian Ad Litem, Certified Divorce Specialist, and Certified Forensic Mental Health Evaluator. Uses EMDR and DBT to help clients navigate SUDs, trauma, and major life transitions.

changingtidesfl.com

FLAFCC upcoming events

Beyond the Allegations: Understanding and Addressing Substance Use in Family Law Cases (December 14, 2026)

Wendy Coughlin, PhD, LMHC, MCAP

Lauri Shannon, LCSW, MCAP