Mediation is a conflict resolution process where a neutral third party, called a mediator, supports disputing individuals to reach an understanding. This process reduces relational tensions and deals with conflict within the couple or the family, thanks to a specifically trained third-party professional who has no judgment or bias, takes no sides, and is bound by confidentiality.
Mediation is not therapy.
​
Mediation provides solutions for anyone in crisis or in conflict with those around them.
The mediator helps you put words to your problems and encourages active listening to each other in an environment where everyone can express themselves freely.
​
The mediator guides your interpersonal exchanges to find satisfactory solutions that meet the needs of both parties, whether emotional, affective, or material.
​
Mediation is based on the voluntary participation of each participant. It allows the conflict to be overcome and a dialogue to be re-established in a spirit of respect and responsibility. Mediation also allows for the joint search for solutions, enabling each person to find their place and identity within the family.
​
In the context of a separation or divorce, the mediator helps you reconnect and find common ground when the context is challenging and uncomfortable. In the situation where the links between separated people and children are preserved, mediation allows the development of healthy co-parenting.
When is mediation helpful?
People turn to mediation in the context of crises or conflicts:
Family: difficulties with their teenage child, disagreements within the family, between brothers and sisters, on the division of inheritance, on the placement of a family member in a retirement home, on important decisions generating blockages.
Marital: adoption, disagreements within the couple (education, place of living, division of tasks, in-laws), couples in a situation of break-up, separated couples (reception and custody of children, division of property, budget), reconstituted families.
Inter-generational: tensions, frequent clashes or breakdown in communication, breakdown in the bond between a parent and child, or between members of the same family.
​
How does the mediation process take place?
The first stage starts with a preliminary individual or joint interview with the aim of identifying the needs and interests of the participants and preparing for the subsequent sessions. The second stage is directed towards the confrontation of points of view and the joint construction of solutions.
​
I am afraid of finding myself in a situation where the mediator takes sides with the other party. How can I avoid this?
Mediators are impartial, neutral and independent from participants.
How many sessions are needed?
It usually takes between 3 and 10 sessions, depending on the complexity of the topic and the engagement of participants.
I am separating from my spouse. Is it possible to talk only about the division of custody of our children?
Yes, the mediator will assist you with any specific needs.
Can the mediator give me information on legal matters?
No. The mediator can't give legal information and can't be held responsible for the decisions taken by participants.
