Eunice Marais Private Social Worker Somerset West

Eunice – Specialist in Child Assessments, Mediation & Forensic Investigations

About

Eunice is a highly experienced practitioner specialising in child assessments, care and contact evaluations, and forensic investigations into allegations of abuse. With a deep commitment to child welfare, her work focuses on providing expert assessments and recommendations that prioritise the best interests of the child.

Her expertise extends to empowering children through age-appropriate sex education, helping to reduce stigma and shame surrounding the topic. She believes that open and informed discussions can contribute to lowering rates of teenage pregnancy, child sexual abuse, and the underreporting of sexual offences.

Eunice also has a strong interest in mediation, particularly in high-conflict divorce cases. By facilitating constructive dialogue between parents, she helps families find amicable and cost-effective solutions without resorting to legal battles. Her mediation approach ensures that children’s needs remain the central focus, while parents work towards mutually beneficial resolutions.

Services

Mediation

Mediation is a structured, impartial process where a neutral mediator assists disputing parties in resolving conflicts. Instead of prolonged and expensive court battles, mediation creates a confidential and constructive space where both parties can discuss their needs, concerns, and frustrations.

The mediation process involves:

• Facilitated discussions aimed at reducing conflict.
• A focus on cooperation and mutual understanding.
• A confidential and neutral setting for negotiations.
• Empowering parties to take an active role in decision-making.

Mediation is particularly beneficial for parents undergoing separation or divorce, helping them establish co-parenting strategies that prioritise the child’s well-being.

Socio-Emotional Child Assessment

A socio-emotional assessment provides a holistic understanding of a child’s emotional and psychological well-being. This process evaluates:

• The child’s experiences with significant people and environments in their life.
• Developmental, environmental, and individual factors influencing their behaviour and emotions.
• Underlying issues that may be affecting the child’s well-being.

How does the process work?

1. Intake interviews with both parents.
2. Individual assessments with the child.
3. Interviews with other relevant family members (if necessary).
4. Collateral information gathering (e.g., from teachers or therapists, with parental consent).
5. Referral for further assessments or therapy if needed.

Care & Contact Investigations

A care and contact investigation is conducted to determine the best living and contact arrangements for a child. These assessments are particularly important in cases of divorce, separation, or disputes over custody.

The investigation includes:

• Assessments with the child/children.
• Interviews with both parents/guardians.
• Home visits to assess living conditions.
• Collateral interviews with teachers, peers, therapists, and other key informants.
• Mediation sessions (if appropriate) to help parents reach a mutual agreement.

All findings and recommendations are based on the best interest of the child, as outlined in Chapter 2, Section 7 of the Children’s Act 38/2005.

Forensic Investigations into Allegations of Abuse

Forensic investigations provide an evidence-based assessment of allegations of child abuse. Eunice follows the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD) protocol and the Comprehensive Assessment Model to ensure that investigations are conducted with precision and sensitivity.

The forensic investigation process includes:

• A structured, evidence-based assessment.
• A detailed court report with findings.
• The ability to act as an expert witness in court if necessary.

These investigations are critical in cases where child abuse is suspected and provide essential legal and psychological support for affected children and families.

Supervised Contact

Supervised contact is recommended in cases where there are concerns about a child’s safety during visits with a parent. This service ensures that:

• The child remains safe and comfortable during interactions.
• A neutral third party oversees the visits.
• A conflict-free environment is maintained.

Supervised contact is often used in situations involving:

• Allegations of neglect, abuse, or domestic violence.
• Parental dysfunction or addiction concerns.
• High-conflict family disputes.

Counselling Services

Eunice offers confidential and professional counselling for both children and adults. Her counselling approach provides a safe space for clients to express their concerns, explore emotions, and develop coping strategies.

Areas of counselling include:

• Child and adolescent counselling.
• Trauma counselling (including abuse recovery).
• Family and relationship counselling.
• Guidance for parents navigating separation and co-parenting.

Additional Information

For those seeking mediation, child assessments, forensic investigations, or counselling, Eunice offers trusted, evidence-based services that prioritise the well-being of children and families.