The collaborative process involves a multidisciplinary approach: the parties and their lawyers work with neutral experts (a financial neutral, child specialist, and divorce coach) as needed, to reach an agreement that works for the entire family.  In mediation, the process involves one neutral who helps the parties and their attorneys reach an agreement on all issues.  the parties may or may not have attorneys in the mediation process.  The mediator's job is to facilitate a settlement on all issues.