What is family mediation all about?

Move forward with the help of family mediation. We help people facing divorce, separation and other family disputes through sensible and practical discussion. Our philosophy is that communication is better than confrontation.

Changes such as divorce, separation, remarriage, or other major life events can bring about numerous challenges for families. Even those with sturdy foundations may encounter tension as they navigate through emotional upheaval, shifting relationships, and the need to redefine roles and responsibilities. Children, in particular, may struggle to adapt to altered parent-child dynamics and unfamiliar living arrangements. The added pressure of financial uncertainties and potential disputes over asset distribution can further compound the stress.

It’s no surprise that communication can often falter within families, especially when navigating the delicate terrain of balancing individual needs and respecting others’ perspectives. The fear of facing the unknown and potential conflicts can heighten anxieties, hindering the search for common ground. However, these challenges also hold potential for growth and understanding, as well as the chance to develop effective coping strategies that can fortify familial bonds during times of change. This is where family mediation steps in as a valuable resource, providing a platform for open and productive dialogue and guiding family members towards mutually satisfactory resolutions.

Common issues addressed in family mediation

Family mediation is a versatile process that can address a wide range of issues within the family context. Common issues addressed in family mediation include:

■ Divorce and separation agreements: Mediation helps couples navigate the complexities of divorce, addressing issues such as property division, spousal support, and the allocation of debts.

■ Child custody (care) and visitation (contact): Mediators assist parents in creating parenting plans that outline custody arrangements, visitation schedules, and decision-making responsibilities in the best interests of the children.

■ Financial matters: This includes discussions about the division of assets, liabilities, and financial support, such as child support or spousal support.

■ Problems with relationships and communication: Mediation may help family members communicate better, resolve underlying difficulties, and build stronger bonds.

■ Blended family challenges: Mediators assist families in navigating the unique dynamics of blended families, addressing issues related to step-parenting, co-parenting, and integrating family members from different households.

■ Estate and inheritance disputes: Mediation can be utilised to resolve conflicts related to wills, inheritance, and the distribution of assets among family members.

■ Post-divorce disputes: Family mediation is effective in addressing issues that arise after the divorce is finalised, such as modifications to custody arrangements, visitation schedules, or support agreements.

■ Domestic relations issues: In some cases, mediation can address disputes involving domestic relations, offering a non-adversarial approach to resolving conflicts.

■ Parenting plans: Mediators help parents create comprehensive parenting plans that cover various aspects of child-rearing, including education, healthcare, and extracurricular activities.

■ Decision-making authority: Mediation can help families establish or modify decision-making authority for important matters concerning children and family life.

■ Family business disputes: In cases where a family business is involved, mediation can assist in resolving conflicts related to ownership, management, and succession planning.

■ Asset protection and distribution: Mediation provides a forum for discussing the fair and equitable distribution of assets and liabilities, ensuring a more amicable resolution compared to traditional legal processes.

Trauma-informed mediation

Trauma-informed mediation is a process that considers the impact of trauma on the parties involved in resolving conflicts. Trauma can affect people’s physical, emotional, cognitive, and behavioral functioning, making them more vulnerable to stress, anxiety, anger, fear, and distrust. The goal of trauma-informed mediation is to create a safe and supportive environment where parties can express their needs, feelings, and perspectives without re-traumatising each other.

There are several strategies involved in trauma-informed mediation. Building rapport and trust with the parties through active listening, empathy, respect, and curiosity is important. Examining the background and context of the conflict by asking open-ended questions encourages parties to share their personal experiences. Recognising signs and symptoms of trauma in parties, such as tone of voice, body language, eye contact, and pauses, is crucial. Providing information and education about trauma helps parties understand its effects and how mediation can aid in healing.

Offering choices and options to the parties, such as setting boundaries, choosing a mediator or support person, or deciding on a settlement amount, gives them control over the mediation process. Minimising the risk of re-traumatisation or triggering is done by avoiding sensitive or upsetting topics like violence, abuse, death, or loss.

Trauma-informed mediation benefits not only individuals who have experienced trauma but also mediators who want to enhance their skills and effectiveness. By applying a trauma-informed approach, mediators can create a more respectful and collaborative atmosphere where both parties feel heard and valued.