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 1. What is the process: Guide to Mediation

 

I was trained through Mediate BC and sessions model a similar practice as outlined in the Ministry of Attorney General document a Guide to Mediation in BC. You can expect that the process you experience with me will be familiar to the guidelines and steps explained in the document.

The Guide to Mediation document is designed to provide an introduction to mediation as a process for resolving disputes in British Columbia.

Information is provided in a question-and-answer format. You may wish to read the document in sequence, or use the menu to jump to the particular question in which you are most interested in.

 

Please click on this link to access comprehensive information on the mediation process.
Government of British Columbia's: The guide to mediation webpage.

 

 

2. Is mediation like counselling?
While mediators and counsellors may share some similar skill-sets, the approach and goal is different. Counselling is focused on deeper, therapeutic personal and family-root issues and goals. Mediation is focused on facilitating negotiation, with the goal of reaching agreement on the issues arising through family separation and divorce. Counsellors may be an important member of your team providing specialized support for you and your children through your family change.

   Mediation will:

• Focus on the present, facilitated through a problem-solving, solution-focused process 

• Identify issues, underlying interests, and help you to resolve the conflict

• Provide a highly cost and time effective way to settle disputes in your family

• Facilitate negotiation through a neutral third party, with specialized training to help you reach agreement

• Often settle disputes within a few sessions.
   

  Mediation will not

• Provide therapeutic interventions

• Address trauma related or mental health challenges

• Remain open after you have reached agreement
   

3. What is the role of the family mediator?
    A mediator will:

• Provide a neutral place to meet.

• Help identify and define the issues you need to resolve.

• Assist you to work out decisions without going to court.

• Keep the discussions respectful and on track.

• Provide educational services and resources to help you make difficult decisions.

• Help you maintain a working co-parent relationship with your former spouse as you restructure your family life.

• Benefit your family by focusing on your children's best interests.
  
   

4. Does the mediator make legal decisions for us?
    A mediator will not:

• Make decisions for you.

• Give you legal advice. It's highly recommended that you see a lawyer before making any final decisions or agreements.

• Work with you to resolve past family trauma.

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Mediation: Your First Step In Resolving Conflict

Mediate BC Video: "Whenever you face a conflict that might escalate into a court battle, know that there's a brighter future ahead when you explore mediation."

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