Working with Trauma Survivors in Mediation

In this time of increased intentional violence both in our communities and in war zones throughout the world, in this time of increased unintentional violence - tornadoes, hurricanes, flooding, those of us in service professions are presented more and more with survivors of trauma, both emotional and physical. As mediators we must be prepared to structure our mediation practice so that survivors are able to effectively discuss issues in conflict, develop options to resolve them and make informed decisions with good judgement. We must be able to serve those sent to us or requesting mediation in a safe, open environment, with sessions that are structured to help clients mediate in their own best interest. I urge all of you in the mediation field to take training on Working with Trauma Survivors in Mediation as well as training on working with Domestic Abuse and its implications for mediation. Also, keep in touch with us at www.partnersinmediation.com for information on our trainings which will be offered in the near future. The other website to visit frequently is www.mediate.com for articles on mediation.

Domestic Abuse and Its Impact on Mediation

Many family and divorce mediators are unaware of the impact that domestic abuse has on the mediation process and ultimately the safety of the victim. Often both new mediators and those with vast experience in the field have little or no understanding of the dynamics of domestic abuse/violence. Certainly the popular media has addressed the theory of the cycle of violence, and made for TV movies often address domestic abuse/violence, and although most people are familiar with the terms, the family mediator must be especially aware of how this issue impacts this process. They must have a solid understanding of the dynamics, know how to assess for Domestic Violence, decide whether or not the parties are appropriate for mediation and know how to structure a conditional mediation if this method of conflict resolution is deemed appropriate.

Sowing Seeds of Mediation

It's satisfying to know the results of your efforts. As a mediator, I am often active in the process when agreements are reached, conflict resolved or relationships strengthened. Sometimes, agreement, resolution or relationship occur long after clients have left my office for the last time. These are no less satisfying, but are usually unknown.

As a mediation trainer, I train many men and women who express an interest in mediation. Only a few of them take up the flag to embark on a career in the mediation field. About 18 months ago, Partners in Mediation, Inc. trained 4 educators from Northern Kentucky University. We subsequently trained many more members of the NKU community.

In the past 9 months or so, NKU has opened its Alternative Dispute Resolution Center. What a thrill to see that so many of these dynamic and insightful former "trainees" are actively involved in this important program offered by the university. It is indeed satisfying to me to know that I have been involved from the start in shepherding these neophyte mediators from their introduction to the concept through to the unveiling of the Center.