The process is broken up into five stages or steps. Mediation may flow smoothly through the stages, or may shift back and forth in middle stages as issues are addressed. 1 Mediator gives opening statement . Mediator sets the tone for the entire session. Ground rules are established.
Mediator builds trust.
Explore issues and find out what the dispute is about. Parties are allowed to vent and explain their point of view and hear each other. Parties identify the issues they need to talk about. Reach agreement on issues that need to be discussed. Prioritize needs and interests taken by parties.