What is mediation? In mediation, you meet together with a neutral guide and together seek to find a solution that works for everyone.

What does a mediator do? As your mediator, I am a neutral facilitator.  I guide the conversation so that each person gets to be heard, and I assist you in exploring and creating solutions that meet your immediate and longer-term needs.

As your mediator, I can also draft the Marital Settlement Agreement and assist you in the filing of the divorce/dissolution paperwork.

Between mediation sessions, I often give homework, so that we make best use of the mediation sessions.

What are the advantages of mediation?

• You are in control of the outcome and process: Going to court always involves risk and uncertainty, as you can never be certain how the court will see your side and rule on an issue. In mediation, you are the one who crafts the solution and sets the pace of the process.
• Creative solutions are possible: In mediation, you are free to create a solution that fits your unique needs.
• Mediation often saves time, money, and frustration: Going to court is time-consuming and costly. Mediation, by getting to the heart of the matter, is often a significantly faster, and thus a less costly solution.
  
• Mediation is private and confidential: Everything said in the mediation is confidential. This creates an environment where you can openly discuss your concerns, and so create an agreement that meets your real needs.
  

When does mediation work well? Mediation works well when all involved want their real needs met, are willing to hear each other, and are open to creative solutions that meet everyone's needs. You do not need to be in agreement for mediation to work. Differences are welcome.

I also encourage mediation as a preventative tool. A mediation can keep relationships open, understanding, and heartful.