Mediation Principles

Mediation is an affordable, non-adversarial alternative to resolving disputes in court.  People choose mediation because they want assistance in resolving their own conflicts with dignity and respect.  

The process is voluntary, confidential, and without prejudice. 

Participants might seek resolution of their conflict by making mutually satisfying agreements that meet their real needs and interests.  

Or, they might be seeking a way to move forward together out of a need to maintain communication, a desire to communicate constructively, or a desire for reconciliation. 

What Do Mediators Do?

Mediators are impartial third parties who have the training and experience to help people with their negotiations. Mediators help people:

• identify their own and others' needs and interests
• understand and change communication and conflict patterns
• communicate needs and interests to each other
• design mutually satisfying plans for moving forward  
• learn how to have create conflict in the future

Cathy is an experienced, highly credentialed professional who is committed to providing affordable, effective, and timely mediation services.
​

Click here to view the National Mediation Rules, 
​which govern all mediation processes in Canada

How Does the Mediation Process Work?

Mediation is a voluntary, exploratory process that can lead to resolution and improved relationships. The process helps you communicate and understand perspectives. It also helps you generate creative options for resolution that encompass all interests.  Parties are given the support, tools, and methods to communicate productively, to explore options, and to make agreements.

Prior to the mediation meeting, you will:

• learn about the mediation process, 
• explain your perspective, your interests, and your needs,  
• contribute any information that you think is important for the mediator to know,  
• put aside, at a minimum, 2 hours for preparation and another 3 hours for a meeting.  Many conflicts are explored and resolved in one meeting. 

 
During the mediation meeting, we will: 

• use appropriate and proven methods to gain clarity on perspectives,
• identify the issues to be discussed,
• build an agenda for discussion,
• jointly explore the issues and create options for resolution,
• choose the best option(s) for resolving each issue,
• make mutually satisfying agreements and commitments.

After the mediation meeting, you will:

• review and sign the memorandum of understanding or letter of agreement; it is recommended that you review the final agreement with legal counsel,  
• put aside 1/2 hour to debrief the mediation process (by phone or in person).