When do Alberta courts order supervised access?

Courts order supervised access when there are concerns about the child's safety or wellbeing during visits. Common reasons include: history of family violence, substance abuse issues, mental health concerns, parental alienation, long absence from child's life, or concerns about parenting ability. Supervision may also be ordered as a temporary measure while assessments are conducted.

What are supervised access centers in Edmonton?

Edmonton has several supervised access centers including: Catholic Social Services Visitation Program, WINGS of Providence, and various private supervision services. These centers provide neutral, safe locations for parent-child visits with trained supervisors who observe and document the interactions.

How much does supervised visitation cost in Alberta?

Costs vary by provider. Non-profit centers may charge $30-75 per visit on a sliding scale based on income. Private supervisors typically charge $40-80 per hour. Some families qualify for subsidized or free services through Legal Aid or community programs. Court orders usually specify which party pays.

Can supervised access be changed to unsupervised?

Yes, supervision can be modified if circumstances change. Courts may remove supervision requirements when the parent demonstrates: completion of required programs (parenting, counseling, addiction treatment), consistent positive visits over time, elimination of safety concerns, and readiness for unsupervised contact. A variation application is required.

Who can be a supervisor for access visits?

Supervisors can include: professional supervisors at access centers, private professional supervisors, agreed-upon family members or friends (if both parties consent and court approves), or other individuals approved by the court. The supervisor must be able to remain neutral and ensure the child's safety.

Supervised Access in Alberta: Complete 2026 Guide

Understanding when supervised visitation is required and how it works in Alberta family law.

Last updated: January 2026 | 12 min read

1. What is Supervised Access?

Supervised access (also called supervised visitation or supervised parenting time) is a court-ordered arrangement where a parent's time with their child must occur in the presence of a third party. The supervisor watches the interactions and can intervene if necessary to protect the child.

Supervision is never intended to be a permanent solution. It's typically ordered as a protective measure while concerns are being addressed, or as a transitional step toward unsupervised parenting time.

Key Principle:

Courts believe children benefit from relationships with both parents. Supervised access allows this relationship to continue while safety concerns are addressed.

2. When Courts Order Supervision

Alberta courts may order supervised access in various circumstances:

Family Violence History

Past domestic violence, even if not directed at the child, raises concerns about safety and modeling behavior.

Substance Abuse

Untreated addiction or recent substance abuse issues that could impair parenting ability.

Mental Health Concerns

Unmanaged mental health conditions that may affect the parent's judgment or behavior.

Parental Alienation

Concerns about a parent making negative statements about the other parent to the child.

Reintroduction After Absence

When a parent has been absent from the child's life and needs gradual reintroduction.

Flight Risk

Concerns that a parent may attempt to abduct or relocate the child.

3. Types of Supervision

Supervision arrangements vary in intensity based on the level of concern:

Direct Professional Supervision

A trained professional is present throughout the visit, observing all interactions. Used for highest-concern cases. Takes place at supervised access centers.

Professional Supervision (Off-Site)

A professional supervisor accompanies parent and child during outings or visits outside a center. More flexibility but maintained oversight.

Community/Family Supervision

An approved family member or friend supervises. Used when concerns are lower or professional supervision isn't available.

Check-In Supervision

Periodic monitoring rather than constant observation. Parent must check in at specified times or locations.

4. Edmonton Supervised Access Centers

Several organizations in Edmonton provide supervised visitation services:

Catholic Social Services - Supervised Access Program

Provides professional supervised visits in a child-friendly environment. Sliding scale fees available.

Phone: (780) 432-1137

WINGS of Providence

Offers supervised visitation services, particularly for families affected by domestic violence.

Phone: (780) 426-4985

Private Supervision Services

Various private professionals offer supervision services. Your lawyer can provide referrals.

5. Costs and Funding

Type of Service	Typical Cost
Non-profit center visits	$30-75 per visit (sliding scale)
Private professional supervisor	$40-80 per hour
Family/community supervisor	Usually unpaid

Court orders typically specify which party is responsible for supervision costs. In some cases, costs are shared.

6. Modifying Supervised Access

To have supervision requirements reduced or removed, you typically need to demonstrate:

Completion of any required programs (parenting courses, counseling, addiction treatment)
Consistent positive visits documented by supervisors
Resolution of the safety concerns that led to supervision
Support from professionals involved in the case
A proposed transition plan for unsupervised access

A variation application must be filed with the court. The other parent will have the opportunity to respond.

7. Frequently Asked Questions

Need Help With Supervised Access Issues?

Whether you're seeking supervised access for safety reasons or trying to move beyond supervision requirements, we can help you navigate the process.

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