Considering mediation?

If you’re considering mediation, this page will help you understand what mediation is (and isn’t), how safety is supported, and what happens after you reach out.

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What mediation is

Voluntary and client-directed

Participation is voluntary. The people in the room decide what to discuss and what agreements (if any) are made.

Neutral as to outcomes

I don’t take sides and I don’t decide results. My role is to support a balanced process and forward movement.

You decide; I manage a fair process

I guide a structured, respectful process—so conversations stay productive and procedurally fair.

Not legal advice or therapy

Mediation is not counselling and I do not provide legal advice. Independent legal advice is recommended before finalizing decisions.

Often a good fit if you are…

  • Ready for structure and clearer communication

  • Wanting a dignified process (even if emotions are high)

  • Willing to consider options and negotiate in good faith

  • Focused on workable next steps (and child-centred decisions, where applicable)

May not be a fit if you are…

  • Looking for leverage or someone to take sides

  • Expecting therapy, diagnosis, or emotional repair

  • Unwilling to participate voluntarily

  • Committed to an adversarial court strategy where negotiation isn’t possible right now

Not sure? That’s normal. A confidential consultation is often the quickest way to clarify fit and next steps.

Good Fit or Not a Fit

What happens after you reach out

  • You tell me the safest way to respond (email only, no voicemail, and whether it’s safe to mention “mediation”).

  • Each person meets with me privately first. This supports fairness, readiness, and safe process design.

  • You’ll receive clear next steps and simple preparation guidance (and what not to send by email).

  • If mediation is appropriate, we confirm the best format (joint, shuttle, or hybrid) and schedule the first session.

Safety and fairness come first

Screening is standard practice in family mediation. I meet with each person privately to ask about safety, power dynamics, and readiness—so the process can be designed to be fair and workable.

If mediation cannot be made appropriate, we pause, redesign, or I may not proceed.

  • Private intake first (separate conversations)

  • Format chosen for safety and productivity (joint / shuttle / hybrid)

  • Clear boundaries and the right to pause or end the process when needed

Ready to take the next step?

The first step is a confidential consultation to understand what’s happening and assess fit. If mediation isn’t appropriate, I’ll tell you that—and help you consider next steps.

Book a Confidential Consult

What to bring to a first conversation

  • A short description of the decision(s) you need to make

  • Any time pressure (upcoming dates or deadlines)

  • Your preferred communication method and safe contact details

  • A willingness to take one practical step forward