What Is Mediation?

When conversations become difficult, the way forward is not always obvious.

Mediation provides a structured, confidential space where people in conflict can have a meaningful conversation, understand what matters to each person, explore options and work toward a way forward.

A mediator does not take sides or decide who is right. Instead, the mediator helps participants communicate, clarify the issues and navigate the conversation so they can make informed decisions about their own outcome.

Different perspectives. One structured conversation. A way forward.

You Don't Have to Agree to Begin

People come to mediation for many different reasons. You may be dealing with a disagreement that has become difficult to resolve on your own. Communication may have broken down. A relationship may matter, but the conflict surrounding it has become harder to manage. Or you may simply want a structured conversation before the situation becomes more difficult.

Mediation creates space to address the conflict directly, with an impartial person helping to keep the process constructive. You do not have to arrive with all the answers. You do need a willingness to participate in the process.

What Does a Mediator Do?

A mediator is an impartial third party who helps participants navigate a difficult conversation.

A mediator helps create a process where participants can:

Speak. Listen. Clarify. Explore. Decide.

The goal is not to force agreement. The goal is to create a fair and structured opportunity for participants to consider the issues and determine what a workable way forward may look like.

A mediator does not:

• Take sides

• Decide who wins or loses

• Impose a solution

• Act as a judge for the participants

• Make decisions on behalf of the people involved

How Mediation Works

1. Start with a Conversation

We begin by understanding the nature of the situation and whether mediation may be appropriate.

2. Prepare for the Process

Participants receive information about how the mediation will work, what to expect and how to prepare.

3. Have the Conversation

The mediator facilitates a structured discussion, giving participants an opportunity to express their concerns, perspectives and interests.

4. Explore What Matters

Participants identify the issues that need attention and consider what is important to them and to the other people involved.

5. Consider Options

Where appropriate, participants explore possible ways forward and consider solutions that address their needs, circumstances and expectations.

6. Decide What Comes Next

If participants reach agreements, those agreements can be documented as appropriate. If they do not reach agreement on everything, the process can still help clarify what remains unresolved and what other steps may be available.

Is Mediation Right for You?

Mediation can be useful when people are willing to participate in a structured process and have an opportunity to communicate about the issues affecting them.

It is not appropriate for every situation, and an initial conversation can help determine whether mediation may be suitable.

You do not need to know whether mediation is the right answer before reaching out.

You can start by asking.

Ready to Explore the Way Forward?

If you're considering mediation or simply want to understand whether it may be appropriate for your situation, you don't need to have everything figured out.

Let's start with a conversation.