Mediation
As a mediator, I guide people through conversations using a structured, yet informal process to help them address issues and develop mutually agreeable solutions. I focus on the process so that everyone involved can concentrate on problem solving. Through deep, active listening and asking thoughtful questions, I help people uncover their own needs and interests so they can communicate better with each other and create their own path forward.
Mediation is a powerful process that keeps the people involved in conflict in control of the outcome, with the support of a third-party mediator to run the process. While there are many styles of mediation, I typically use a structured facilitative approach that focuses on helping parties uncover and address their own interests and needs and communicate those needs in a supported setting. Mediation is also an opportunity to explore new ways to address issues and think through the impacts of those options. As a mediator, I do not advocate for any individual or group; instead, I help parties navigate the conversation and think things through with my support. Reaching a "resolution" is fully in the parties' control and not imposed by me. Whatever unfolds in a mediation session, I help parties gain clarity on the plan and next steps moving forward.
Mediation is a great tool for conflict resolution and problem solving in many settings:
Workplace: Are you having conflict between co-workers or a manager and staff member? Are workplace norms and expectations unclear? I work with the parties to outline the issues, clarify expectations, and help develop a more productive workplace together. With my background in Human Resources, I am familiar and attuned to power dynamics, challenges, constraints, and opportunities present in work environments, and I can help parties navigate those unique circumstances.
Interpersonal: Are you having trouble communicating with a roommate, partner, or family member? Is there an important decision or task that needs to be accomplished, but it’s unclear who is doing what or what needs to happen next? Or maybe you keep having the same frustrating conversation about household chores or other responsibilities and want to make a plan. I work with each person individually to understand their unique perspective, concerns, and hopes, then bring everyone together to work through those concerns collectively. I help everyone navigate the conversation in a healthy and productive way.
Something Else?: Are you experiencing conflict with someone, but don’t see a description of your situation here? Or maybe you’re observing a conflict between others, or even caught in the middle, and don’t know what to do. That’s okay! Please reach out. With a short conversation, we can see if I might be able to help.
Other settings where mediation or facilitation might be helpful include:
Organizational Governance
Community & Neighborhood
Professional Associations
Homeowner Associations