The next time you or someone you know is in conflict, consider using mediation. Mediation is a process of dealing with conflict in which the parties are active participants in the decisions required to resolve the conflict. A mediator is a neutral facilitator who works to assist parties in engaging in discussion and reaching resolution.
Mediation is a confidential and voluntary process.
The mediator wears many hats during the process. Individual mediations differ according the mediator's style, the type of conflict and the number of parties. But some basic principles are found in all mediations. First, each party will be given the opportunity to share their point of view and feelings about an issue, often in the presence of the other parties. Second, the mediator helps each party to identify their particular priorities, values and goals around the issue.