Custody Evaluator Near Me in Utah
Objective, thorough custody evaluations conducted by licensed psychologists with decades of experience in Utah family courts.
Key Takeaways
- Licensed doctoral-level psychologists with specialized clinical expertise
- Court-accepted evaluations by psychologists experienced in Utah family law
- Reports admitted in courts throughout Utah — trusted by attorneys and judges since 1986
- Most major insurance plans accepted — self-pay options available
Custody Evaluation in Utah
Child custody evaluations are among the most sensitive assessments in psychology. At CPS, our licensed psychologists conduct objective, comprehensive evaluations that serve the best interests of the child while meeting the standards required by Utah family courts. This page is for parents going through or anticipating a custody dispute who need a court-qualified evaluation.
Our custody evaluators have decades of experience working with attorneys, judges, and family court systems. Evaluations include individual interviews with each parent, parent-child observations, psychological testing, collateral interviews, and a detailed written report.
CPS also provides parental fitness evaluations, parental capacity assessments, and relocation evaluations. Our reports are thorough, evidence-based, and regularly admitted in court proceedings across Utah.
Serving patients across the state of Utah with three convenient office locations in Salt Lake City, Layton, and West Jordan. To schedule a custody evaluation appointment, call us at (801) 483-1600 or visit our Salt Lake City office at 1208 East 3300 South, Salt Lake City, UT 84106.
About the Evaluator
Steven Szykula, Ph.D. — Licensed Psychologist
Dr. Szykula has been evaluating and treating behavioral health conditions in Utah since 1979. As the founder of Comprehensive Psychological Services, he has conducted thousands of neuropsychological, ADHD, autism, and custody evaluations. He has provided expert testimony in Utah family courts and is a member of the American Academy of Clinical Neuropsychology (AACN).
(801) 483-1600References & Resources
Ready to schedule a custody evaluation?
Insurance verification on your first call. Most patients scheduled within 1–2 weeks.
Custody Evaluation vs. Parenting Coordinator — How Do They Differ?
| Aspect | Custody Evaluation | Parenting Coordinator |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Comprehensive assessment of parental fitness and child's best interests | Ongoing conflict resolution and parenting plan implementation |
| Conducted by | Licensed psychologist or mental health professional | Trained parenting coordinator (often an attorney or therapist) |
| Court involvement | Ordered by the court; report submitted to the judge | Appointed by the court but functions independently between hearings |
| Duration | Weeks to months of evaluation; one-time report to court | Months to years; ongoing role throughout case |
| Outcome | Binding custody and visitation recommendations to the judge | Parenting plan modifications; recommendations to court as needed |
| Scope | Parent psychological profile, parenting capacity, parent-child relationships, child's needs | Parenting communication, conflict resolution, logistical coordination |
| Authority | Makes formal recommendations; judge typically defers | Facilitates agreements; can report non-compliance to court |
What to Expect
Individual clinical interviews with each parent (2–3 hours per parent)
Parent-child interaction observations
Psychological testing and personality assessments for each parent
Collateral interviews (teachers, therapists, family members)
Comprehensive court-ready report with findings and recommendations
Why Choose CPS
Nearest Office — Salt Lake City
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a custody evaluation take?
Can both parents use the same evaluator?
Will the evaluator testify in court?
What does the evaluation report include?
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Schedule your custody evaluation at our Salt Lake City office. Call us today or book online.
Disclaimer: The information on this page is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. The information provided reflects general descriptions of psychological services and is not a substitute for a professional evaluation. If you believe you or someone you know may benefit from these services, please contact CPS at (801) 483-1600. For mental health emergencies, please call 988 (Suicide & Crisis Lifeline) or 911.