Mediation for Separations and Divorces
Custody, child support, property, alimony and taxes are among the issues to be resolved when a couple separates. No one wants a stranger to make those decisions for them. Mediation puts you in control and sets the stage for a win-win outcome that is not achievable through litigation. It is forward-looking with the goal of creating solutions that you can live with and trust. Not only will you create your own agreement, you will also lessen hostility and improve your communication skills in the process.
Working with a trained mediator is a sensible choice. The mediator is completely neutral and does not represent either person but facilitates and supports the overall effort to work together to reach agreement. The mediator will help you cut through the emotional barriers and mistrust that often interfere with productive communication. The mediator is able to focus on the real concerns of spouses and parents and not merely their view of what is required to protect themselves or their “position”. Mediation works because it allows each party to truly hear the other party’s needs and concerns and to accommodate those concerns without compromising their own. This leads to a lessening of conflict because the intent and meaning of what is said can be clarified immediately, before misunderstandings compromise the process.
Mediation relies on direct communication, and it is the job of the mediator to keep the discussion constructive and focused, which accelerates the conclusion. This approach also promotes the value of putting the children’s needs first, since even after a divorce, parents are still required to co-parent. If they have jointly agreed on their responsibilities and timesharing through a mediated settlement, they are less likely to have conflict arise in the future, which is a direct benefit to the children.
What will the mediator do for you?
- Gather relevant information
- Actively listen to your needs, interests and concerns
- Communicate with you and help you communicate with others
- Support your ability to be heard by reframing frustration, anger and conflict
- Refer you to other people or programs where appropriate
- Guide the parties toward a workable and durable solution
- Envision options that neither party imagined
- Prepare a document which may be used to draft the final agreement
Schedule a Mediation
Schedule a mediation by email or call us at (919) 481-3340 if you are ready to take a positive peaceful step to creating your own future.