Section 30 Assessment FAQ

What is a Section 30 assessment?

A Section 30 assessment is a structured and often intensive process. Our goal is to make it as clear, respectful, and transparent as possible while keeping the focus on the best interests of the child.

What is the role of a Section 30 assessor?

A Section 30 assessor is a neutral professional who gathers information about a family and provides recommendations to the court regarding parenting arrangements.

Johanne Colas works as an independent examiner, not a therapist or advocate. Her role is to understand family dynamics, explore each parent’s perspective, and assess how a child’s needs can best be supported.

This process is time-limited and focused. It does not guarantee any specific outcome for either party.

What does a typical Section 30 assessment consist of?

While each assessment is tailored, most include:

  • Individual interviews with each parent or caregiver
  • Meetings with children when appropriate
  • Parent-child observations in office and or at home
  • Interviews with step-parents or other caregivers when relevant
  • Contact with collateral sources such as teachers, doctors, or other professionals
  • Review of submitted documentation
  • Preparation of a comprehensive report with recommendations

You may be asked to provide names of people who can offer relevant information. Not all suggested contacts will be included.

Parents and collateral sources may be given the opportunity to review portions of the report for factual accuracy before it is finalized.

How much does an assessment cost?

Johanne Colas’ rate is $250 plus HST per hour.

Most assessments take approximately 45 to 65 hours, meaning total costs typically range from:

$11,250 to $16,250 plus HST

Costs may increase depending on complexity, documentation volume, and level of cooperation between parties.

What is the retainer and how can it be paid?

The initial retainer is $7,500 plus HST, and must be paid before the assessment begins.

  • Payment is typically split between parties based on prior agreement or court direction
  • Accepted payment methods include eTransfer, cheque, and money order
  • Credit cards are not accepted for the retainer

Additional retainers may be requested if needed to complete the assessment.

What is required to secure an assessment slot?

To confirm your assessment:

  • Both parties must sign the Retainer Agreement and Consent forms
  • A court order or agreement must be in place
  • The full retainer must be received
  • Required intake steps, including Jane App registration, must be completed

Assessment scheduling is not guaranteed until all of the above are in place.

How long does it take to complete a Section 30 assessment?

Assessments typically take 4 to 6 months to complete.

Timing depends on:

  • Availability of all parties
  • Timely submission of documents
  • Access to collateral sources
  • Overall complexity of the situation

Delays in providing information can extend the process.

Are appointments virtual or in person?

  • The first appointment is in person at Four Wings Psychology
  • Parent interviews may be in person or virtual after the initial meeting
  • Children are typically seen in person
  • Observations may take place in office and or at home
  • Collateral contacts are usually conducted by phone or secure video

Virtual appointments are conducted through a secure platform called Jane App.

What types of documents can I submit for review?

You may submit documents that help provide context about your family and your child’s needs, including:

  • Court documents such as the continuing record or prior agreements
  • Communication records such as emails or text messages, ideally full exchanges
  • School records such as report cards or teacher reports
  • Medical or health-related records
  • Police or child protection involvement records
  • Letters or affidavits from third parties
  • Photos or other relevant supporting materials

A few important guidelines:

  • You will be given a deadline for submitting documents
  • A limited number of examples per concern is recommended
  • Time spent reviewing documents is billable
  • All materials become part of the file and will not be returned
  • Documents must be submitted through secure and approved methods such as Jane App or scheduled delivery

Will Johanne Colas speak to my therapist?

Possibly, but only when appropriate.

  • You may be asked to provide consent for Johanne to speak with your therapist or review relevant records
  • In many cases, consent from both parents is required before contacting professionals
  • Johanne aims to respect the therapeutic relationship and will request only the information necessary for the assessment

Not all therapists or professionals will be contacted.

What is Jane App?

Jane App is the secure online platform used by Four Wings Psychology.

It is used for:

  • Scheduling appointments
  • Receiving reminders
  • Secure document sharing
  • Completing intake forms
  • Viewing invoices and account information

You will receive login details once your assessment is scheduled.

Important things to keep in mind

  • The assessment is for the court, not therapy
  • The client is the family as a whole, not one individual
  • There is no confidentiality between parties in this process
  • Information may be shared with the other party, counsel, and the court
  • The final report is released only once all fees are paid in full

This process can feel demanding at times. Our goal is to approach it with clarity, fairness, and respect so that decisions are grounded in a thoughtful understanding of your child’s needs.