What Mediation Is

What Mediation Is

Mediation is simply a non-adversarial conflict resolution process that is facilitated by neutral "mediators". The mediators are highly trained and experienced in dealing with conflict from the inside and usually are able to assist the participants in seeing each other in new ways and in finding long-lasting, mutually acceptable ways of settling the disagreement.

The mediators strive to create a "safe place" where the participants are both heard and respected by everyone and where it becomes safe to say what they truly need as opposed to the positions they have previously taken. The mediators are in essence experienced guides who know how conflict works and who can assist participants in lowering the barriers they have raised between each other to talk face to face in an effort to find common ground.

The mediators are neutral - they do not take sides in the dispute. Rather, they assist the participants to each express what they need to say, and to truly hear each other on a deeper level than has been the case during the heat of conflict. This allows the participants to repair damaged relationships at least to the point where they can work together for mutual goals.

There are many types of mediation. Our preferred type of mediation gets everyone who is part of the dispute into the same room. We find that the process makes it possible for people who have not been able to communicate to begin communicating very effectively, first through statements to the mediators and finally talking face to face with their "adversaries". The mediators guide each step of the process to assure that no one dominates or is left out of the discussions.

We have found that the vast majority of our clients leave with not only a lasting agreement that they created, but feeling heard, respected, and satisfied with the process and the mediators.

How about you? Are you in a conflict? Have your efforts to settle the matter failed, or even made things worse? Give us a call - you have nothing to lose, and everything to gain!

What Mediation Is Not

Mediation is not arbitration where a neutral third party listens to the arguments of all and makes a final and binding ruling.

Mediation is not therapy or intended as therapy.

Mediation is not an involuntary process - no one can make you agree to anything and you can leave at any time.

Mediation is not fact-finding. While the mediators listen to the facts and consider your arguments, they do not then make recommendations to the parties. Any settlement you reach is by you and for you based on your needs.

Mediation is not an extension of the Court system. The mediators do not make recommendations to the Courts if you do not reach a voluntary settlement.

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